Chabad Tokyo Japan

“It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make a fitting helper for him.” (Genesis 2:18) The verse is spoken by G-d, and it highlights the need for marital partnership for life. This verse is part of the creation narrative in the book of Genesis, describing the origin of humanity and the creation of the first human, Adam. The verse reflects G-d’s design for humanity and involves connection and relationships between a male and female as they were created by G-d. This is an essential theme within the Noahide code.

The institution of marriage has undoubtedly undergone some pressure due to various trends in Western society. This has challenged the traditional nuclear family model often associated with marriage. But despite this, we see a strengthening in the traditional concept of marriage. Non-traditional family structures, such as single-parent families and families with same-sex couples, have proven to be unstable and most importantly they are against the command of G-d in the 7 Noahide laws.

This might begin by reinforcing the importance of the Noahide laws as a foundation for marital proper behavior. It would emphasize that seeking a partner who also values these principles can contribute to a strong and lasting marriage. The family and community play a role in Noahide relationships. An individual or a community leader should learn about the significance of pre-marital counseling or education to address potential challenges, align expectations, and establish a solid foundation for marriage.

How does this issue of marriage apply to modern-day Noahides?
The prohibition against adultery is considered one of the seven Noahide laws, as it falls under the broader category of maintaining moral behavior. Therefore, Noahides are expected to study and be aware of all the details of this issue as part of the Noahide laws.
These prohibitions against adultery and the severe penalties associated with them highlight the importance of maintaining the sanctity of marriage and fidelity within the family. The Torah places a strong emphasis on moral behavior, and these laws are intended to guide in living righteous lives according to G-d’s as expressed by the 7 Noahide commandments.

*This is from a series of articles by Rabbi Bernstein Moshe.

The Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot) is a significant Jewish festival that signifies the support of the Divine Providence. Among the last prophets, Zechariah’s prophecies often revolve around the era of Moshiach and the events that will happen in the festival of Sukkot.

This prophecy is brought in Zechariah 14:16-17: “Then everyone who is left of all the nations that came against Jerusalem shall go up from year to year to worship the King… and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles.” Traditionally, the Feast of Tabernacles is a Jewish festival. However, the prophecy says that in the Messianic era, all nations will bring burnt offerings to the Third Holy Temple in Jerusalem.

Presently, Noahides individuals are not obliged to observe the commandment of dwelling in the Sukkah. This festival is not a religious obligation for them, as they are prohibited from creating a new religion apart from the Seven Noahide Laws. Although nowadays non-Jews are not bound by this commandment, should they choose to sit in the Sukkah for the sake of reward, they may do so, but not as a religious commandant. (The divine code chapter 3:3)

The prophecy of Zachariah says that nations that have repented from their past ways will converge on Jerusalem each year during Sukkot to worship G-d and partake in the celebration of this holiday. Those nations that heed this call and come to Jerusalem will be blessed with abundant rainfall, ensuring the fertility of their crops. Conversely, those who neglect this order will experience a lack of rain, impacting their fields.

In this vision of the future, nations put aside their conflicts to unite in worship and celebration of the holiday of Sukkot. It brings a future of global peace, unity, and spiritual harmony, this can only be realized under the guidance of King Moshiach. At its core, this prophecy is setting the stage for huge revelations of the coming redemption.

*This is from a series of articles by Rabbi Bernstein Moshe.

This is from a series of articles by Rabbi Bernstein Moshe. This time, the topic is about Rosh Hashana, starting this Friday evening.

Rosh Hashanah- Returning to the Source of Creation

In Rosh Hashanah, all the life energy of the entire universe undergoes a big reset and renewal, a new light that has never been before in the world, comes down after Israel blows on the shofar. On this day, God completed all the acts of Genesis, for six days. On the sixth day, creation was completed with the creation of the first man, and that day was Rosh Hashanah. Just as the human head activates the entire body, so on Rosh Hashanah everything that will happen during the year is determined.
It is also the anniversary of the creation of Adam and Eve. Right after their creation on the first Rosh Hashanah, they were commanded to observe six laws. These are the six laws that Adam was commanded:

Idolatry: Not to worship idols.

Blasphemy: This law prohibits dishonoring the name of G-d.

Murder: Not taking human life.

Theft: Not stealing another person’s property.

Adultery and incest: To avoid immoral behavior.

The establishment of a legal system.

The seventh law was given to Noah after the flood: Not eating the flesh of a living animal.

In other words, the seven laws include:

1. Knowledge of the Oneness of G-d. To learn about the infinite divine unity of G-d
2. To worship and respect G-d’s holy name.
3. Respect the sanctity of human life.
4. Respect the rules of the traditional family and live according to them.
5. Respect others’ property.
6. Respect all creatures.
7. Establish a judicial system

Noahides are not allowed to observe Shabbat or Jewish holidays in the same halachic manner as Jews do. However, it is permitted for Gentiles to recite psalms, which apparently, could be beneficial in Rosh Hashanah.

The story of Adam primarily focuses on his role as the first human being in the Garden of Eden and right in the beginning he was given six out of seven commandments (Adam was not permitted to eat the flesh of animals). The purpose is to create a dwelling place for G-d. This is the role of our generation, to complete this mission and bring about redemption and the revelation of Moshiach by fulfilling the 7 Noahide laws.

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This is an article by Rabbi Bernstein Moshe. This time, we will discuss the upcoming Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashana.

Why No Parties Are Celebrated on Rosh Hashanah?

Rosh Hashanah is one of the most important holidays (Sept. 16-17) . It is the anniversary of the creation of Adam and Eve, and a day of judgment and coronation of G‑d as king. On the eve of Rosh Hashanah, the universe undergoes a kind of reset, where the energy of life is reduced to a minimal state. Mankind and all creatures in the world are judged by Heaven on this day. This is why we don’t celebrate this holiday with extroverted parties. When there is judgment, it’s a time of fear. However, there is a joyous aspect on that holiday, as this is a time of accepting the kingship of Hashem.

Rosh Hashanah is a profound and significant moment in which the universe and time itself are renewed. It’s a time for introspection and the coronation of the king of kings. It encourages individuals to let go of their ego and open up to the coronation associated with this holiday.

This day marks the beginning of the High Holy Days. It is a time of reflection, repentance, and self-renewal. It’s a time when a new cycle of creation and renewal begins. On this holiday, the entire year’s abundance is given to the whole creation and each creature as well. The renewed individual bond of our soul happens with the king’s coronation.

A key subject associated with Rosh Hashanah is to “make yourself small.” This means humbling oneself and recognizing that there is something greater and more significant than one’s own ego or desires. By doing so, one can open up to the unlimited and connect with G-d. The Zohar says: Make yourself big, and you can’t contain anything; make yourself small, and you can contain the unlimited.

For every Noahide, man, and woman, this day has a huge significance. Therefore, making proactive decisions regarding adding to the observance of the 7 commandments could benefit the entire year.

This is from a series of articles by Rabbi Bernstein Moshe. This time, it is about Parashat Ki Tavo.

Ki Tavo- curses and blessings

In our Torah portion, we find the “curses and blessings”. Each curse is associated with a specific action that goes against G-d’s command. On the other hand, there are many blessings when we fulfill G-d’s will. In these verses, also many Noahide laws are expressed.

Idol worship: Condemning the creation and worship of idols or images. Such actions are considered an abomination as they stray from the belief in one G-d.

Not to steal: Moving a neighbor’s landmark would unjustly change property boundaries. It relates to the prohibition of stealing land. The prohibition against stealing land applies to all individuals. This prohibition is even more severe in the land of Israel where stealing land from Jews is subject to harsh punishment according to Torah law. The land of Israel holds a special place as the Promised Land, given by G-d to the Israelites. This land is a divine inheritance and a sacred place.

Establishing courts of justice. Avoiding distorting justice and fair judgment for vulnerable individuals.

In each case, the curse is directed at actions that undermine the principles of justice that are integral to a moral and just society.

Adultery: Engaging in incestuous relationships, specifically with one’s father’s wife.

Engaging in bestiality, lying with animals.

Committing incest with sisters, from the mother’s side.

These acts represent various forms of sexual misconduct, highlighting the importance of maintaining healthy and appropriate relationships within families and communities.

Only by following the 7 Noahide laws can ensure the path of righteousness and the significance of living in accordance with G-d’s laws and making vessels to accept the blessings of Hashem. Following the Noahide Code is all about opening ourselves up to blessings. Just as a vessel must be clean and well-prepared to hold precious liquid, this way we attract blessings into our lives. This way, we can harness the infinite impact of the Noahide laws to shape a brighter future for humanity and bring about the redemption.