At the Dawn of creation G-d gave the first human being six rules to follow so that His world would be sustained. Later, after the Great Flood, He charged Noah with one more.
According to Jewish tradition, there are 70 families with 70 paths within the great Family of Man. And each individual has his or her path within a path. But there is one universal basis for us all.
Non-Jews who lives by these rules, acknowledging that they are what G-d wants of us, is concidered by the Jewish tradition to be righteous. That person is a builder with a share in the world as it is meant to be.
Here are those seven instructions according to ancient tradition, with a touch of elaboration:
1. Acknowledge that there is only one G-d who is Infinite and Supreme above all things. In this command is included acts such as prayer, study and meditation.
2. Respect the Creator. As frustrated and angry as you may be, do not vent it by cursing your Maker.
3. Do not murder. Each human being, just as Adam and Eve, comprises an entire world.
4. Respect the institution of marriage. the marriage of a man and a women is a reflection of the oneness of G-d and his creation. Dishonesty in marriage is an assault on that oneness.
5. Do not steal. Deal honestly in all your business. By relying on G-d rather than on our own conniving, we express our trust in Him as the Provider of Life.
6. Respect G-d's creatures. Do not cause unnecessary suffering to any creature.
7. Maintain justice. Justice is G-d's business, but we are given the charge to lay down necessary laws and enforce them whenever we can. When we right the wrongs of society, we are acting as partners in the act of sustaining the creation.
Topic: Sheva Mitzvot Ben Noah (Read 11135 times)