בס”ד
In this Torah portion, Rashi explains that “Ger Toshav” (resident alien) refers specifically to a non-Jew who has accepted upon himself not to worship idols (Leviticus 25:35). A Ger Toshav is a non-Jew who has formally accepted the fundamental moral framework of the Seven Noahide Laws, especially the prohibition against idolatry, and lives within the Land of Israel during the Jubilee period. Therefore, the question arises: Why does Rashi state only the first commandment – not to worship idols – and not all seven commandments?
The prohibition of idolatry is the first and most fundamental of the Seven Noahide Laws. Its profound importance is linked to the core concept of the infinite unity of G-d. The Noahide Laws are a set of seven moral imperatives that are binding on all humanity. The first of these is the prohibition against idolatry, which forbids worshipping anything other than the One G-d or bowing down to idols or images.
The very essence of the prohibition of idolatry is a direct affirmation of the infinite unity of G-d. G-d is absolutely One and unique; there is no other being, force, or power equivalent to Him. He is the sole Creator and Sustainer of all existence. Idolatry fundamentally contradicts this unity. All worship, prayer, and devotion must be directed solely to G-d.
Therefore, the prohibition against idolatry is the core of the Seven Noahide Commandments. If humanity denies it, then the basis for all other ethical laws (such as prohibitions against murder, theft, injustice, and sexual immorality) loses its divine foundation. Without the recognition and acceptance of G-d’s infinite unity, there is no objective standard for morality. Thus, the prohibition of idolatry is the most essential among the Seven Noahide Commandments.
This is why Rashi states only the first Noahide commandment, not to worship idols, in his definition of a Ger Toshav: because it is the most essential command that encompasses everything. Once the true redemption comes soon, the Jewish commandment of Jubilee will return, and therefore, the possibility of a righteous resident alien in the Land of Israel will become a reality once again.
Sources: Leviticus 25:35. Guide for the Perplexed III:29. Maimonides, Mishneh Torah, Laws of Idolatry, Chapter 2:6. Rabbi Yonatan Steif, Mitzvot HaShem, page 310.
By Rabbi Moshe Bernstein
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