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Naso-Oaths and Vows

Naso-Oaths and Vows

The Torah portion of Naso deals with the laws concerning oaths and vows. The underlying principle of truthfulness in oaths connects to the broader Noahide prohibition against blasphemy.The prohibition of swearing falsely is discussed in this portion, (Numbers 5:5–10), describing the laws of a person who swears falsely or acts deceitfully. The Noahide prohibition against blasphemy is connected to respecting the name of G-d (Maimonides Kings 9:1) and personal truthfulness. This is rooted in the teachings of the Seven Laws…

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Accepting the Torah with Renewed Vitality

Accepting the Torah with Renewed Vitality

Shavuot is a specifically Jewish holiday that commemorates the giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai. Preparing for the giving of the Torah also relates to the seven Noahide laws that were given on Mount Sinai. The giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai is a central event in Judaism, and, as such, this one-time event holds meaning for other nations. While the Torah itself outlines the 613 commandments specifically for the Jewish people, the Matan Torah connects all mankind…

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Is capital punishment by a Noahide court rectification for the individual?

Is capital punishment by a Noahide court rectification for the individual?

The answer is yes because it rectifies his soul and serves as an atonement, but as we have limited understanding and do not see the whole picture, it might be hard to see this truth. Basically, sinning is like drilling a hole in a watertight boat. Being too forgiving to sinners means being cruel to innocent people who will suffer from those sinners.  This is one of the reasons why there is capital punishment in the Noahide code and the…

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Behar-Acceptance of Ger Toshav

Behar-Acceptance of Ger Toshav

Our Torah portion brings a very special commandment that is also related to the children of Noah. The Yovel (Jubilee) is observed only at the time of the Holy Temple, and after seven cycles of Shemittah, which total 49 years (7 cycles of Shemitah x 7 years each = 49 years), the fiftieth year is called the jubilee year. This is also a year of rest for the land, but it holds additional significance. This year requires that the land…

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The 7 Universal Commandments and Free Choice

The 7 Universal Commandments and Free Choice

G-d created everything that exists, so He is therefore beyond all categories of existence and any description. Even terms such as “infinite,” and “eternal” cannot help us define Him truly. He created all the categories and logical rules, so He is beyond the limitations of these rules or being “infinite” or “eternal.” Despite His infinite oneness, He desired to have a dwelling place in the lower worlds where created human beings are not always aware of His presence. In order…

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