Noahide

Noahide refers to a non-Jew who observes the Noahide laws, a traditionally recognized set of seven moral imperatives in Judaism. The term derives from rabbinic sources that teach these laws were given by God to Noah and his descendants after the Flood as a basic ethical code for all humanity. In standard rabbinic interpretation, a non-Jew who observes these laws is considered righteous, and some sources teach that such a person has a share in the world to come.

The seven laws commonly enumerated are: 1) Do not worship idols; 2) Do not blaspheme God or curse God; 3) Do not murder; 4) Do not commit adultery or engage in sexual immorality; 5) Do not steal; 6) Do not eat flesh taken from a living animal; and 7) Establish courts of law and ensure justice in society. There is some variation in wording across sources, particularly on the second and sixth laws.

In historical and modern contexts, the Noahide laws are cited in discussions of universal morality, interfaith relations, and Jewish ethics. They are generally presented as a nonritual framework intended for non-Jews, distinct from the Torah’s mitzvot applicable to Jews. Observance ranges from study and ethical living to formal commitment in some communities; there is no single governing authority for all Noahides. Some groups promote outreach or education about the Noahide laws as a basis for ethical conduct among all people.