בס”ד
Moses was commanded by the Almighty to teach the nations the 7 Noahide Laws, as stated in Laws of Laws of Kings 8:10 of the Rambam:
“Moses was commanded by the Almighty to compel all the inhabitants of the world to accept the commandments given to Noah’s descendants.”
This commandment also applies to Noahides, as it falls under the commandment of establishing dinim (a judicial system). One is responsible for guiding others on how they should live according to the moral laws. The duty is to ensure that others do not sin. However, one is not obligated to do this at the risk of their own life or when it is clear that the warning will have no effect.
The Different Types of People and Their Reactions to the 7 Noahide Laws
People react in different ways when learning about the 7 Noahide Laws, depending on their willingness to listen and open their hearts to these commandments. In many cases, we can categorize their responses into four types, each with its own character and approach.
- The Curious Person
This person is genuinely curious and seeks to understand the 7 Noahide Laws deeply. They ask questions because they want to know why certain actions are done or avoided, and they strive to apply these principles in their own lives. They desire to lead a more just and moral life and build a relationship with G-d.
When speaking to this person, provide detailed explanations and examples that clarify the deeper meaning of the laws and how they apply to daily life. For example, you could explain that giving charity (tzedakah) is not explicitly one of the 7 Noahide Laws, but it aligns with the principles of justice and compassion, helping to build a fair and balanced society. - The Dismissive Person
This person asks, “Why do you do that?” with a tone of rejection or indifference towards the 7 Noahide Laws. They are not interested in following these laws and may even deny the existence of G-d who gave them.
In this case, it is often futile to engage in deep discussions. A short and simple response, such as saying, “I follow the 7 Noahide Laws because G-d commands it,” is often sufficient. It’s also important to understand why they reject the laws—sometimes their resistance stems from past negative experiences or misunderstandings about religion. However, avoid investing too much energy in someone who is not open to change. - The Good-Natured Person
This person may not be fully aware of the 7 Noahide Laws but lives according to many of them intuitively. They act with kindness, honesty, and fairness, often without realizing these actions align with Divine commandments. Once they learn about the Noahide Laws, they will be curious and eager to learn how they can incorporate them further into their lives.
For this person, start with the basics. Introduce them to the fundamental principle of believing in one G-d, who desires a relationship with humanity, and how living justly and morally is part of the Divine plan. Keep the explanation simple, focusing on how the laws promote goodness and harmony in the world. - The Unaware Person
This person has never deeply considered questions of faith or morality. They live according to their own sense of right and wrong, shaped by personal experiences and habits. They may not understand why the 7 Noahide Laws are important or why they should follow them.
When engaging with this person, begin by sharing simple ideas about G-d and moral behavior. You might explain that G-d created everything and desires that people live justly, treating others with kindness and respect. Presenting the idea that their actions have a higher purpose may help open their mind. If they are indifferent to faith altogether, approach them gently, showing patience, and leading by example. Over time, they may come to appreciate how living by these principles brings greater fulfillment and purpose.
Conclusion
Teaching the 7 Noahide Laws is a vital mission to guide others toward living justly and morally. This task requires an understanding of the different ways people respond to these laws. Whether someone is genuinely curious, dismissive, already good-natured, or unaware of these principles, it is essential to approach them with patience, wisdom, and compassion. Our goal is to help make the world a more just and harmonious place by encouraging everyone to follow the laws that G-d has given us.
By Angelique Sijbolts
With thanks to Rabbi Tani Burton for his feedback
See also the blog:
BNEI NOACH AND OUTREACH
PROMOTING THE 7 LAWS OF NOAH: IS IT A REQUIREMENT FOR NOAHIDES?
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