Justice and the Seven Noahide Laws: A universal blueprint for humanity

DURING HIS first term in office, President Donald Trump was known as the “Tweeter-in-Chief” for his frequent and provocative posts on Twitter, now known as X. This week, he issued a controversial tweet demanding the release of hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip. He warned that if the hostages are not freed before his potential return to office in January, there would be “all hell to pay”.

While the statement is fiery, at its core it reflects a fundamental human principle: the demand for justice and the protection of the innocent. This concept is not merely a political stance — it is a universal moral obligation deeply rooted in human ethics as epitomised by the Seven Noahide Laws. These are a set of commandments given by God to Noah and reaffirmed to Moses at Mount Sinai.

WHAT ARE THE SEVEN NOAHIDE LAWS?

The Seven Noahide Laws form the foundation of a just and ethical society for all humanity. They include:

1. Do not murder – Uphold the sanctity of life.

2. Do not steal – Respect property and fairness.

3. Do not worship idols – Recognise the unity of God.

4. Do not blaspheme – Speak with respect and honour.

5. Do not engage in immoral relationships – Strengthen family and community values.

6. Do not eat the limb of a living animal – Show compassion toward all living beings.

7. Establish courts of justice – Ensure accountability and fairness in society.

These laws are not products of human logic or cultural consensus. They are divine commandments, an eternal blueprint for a moral and harmonious world.

WHY INTENTION MATTERS

Maimonides, the great Jewish philosopher, emphasised a crucial distinction: following these laws simply because they “make sense” or seem logical is insufficient. Instead, they should be observed as divine commandments.

Why? Because human reasoning is fallible and subject to change. What seems logical today may not hold tomorrow. Observing these laws as God’s commandments ensures that justice and ethics remain rooted in an unchanging, eternal source. This transcends situational morality.

For instance, someone might avoid theft because it feels wrong or inconvenient. But in a situation where stealing seems justified, their reasoning might shift. However, someone who refrains from theft because it is God’s command will remain steadfast no matter the circumstance.

THE CALL FOR JUSTICE AND THE NOAHIDE LAWS

The Noahide Laws call on every nation to establish systems of justice that ensure fairness, protect the innocent, and hold wrongdoers accountable. Justice is not optional — it is the bedrock of a functional and moral society.

These laws remind us that morality is not a human invention but a divine command. Leaders, nations, and individuals alike bear the responsibility to uphold these principles — not because they are convenient or rational, but because they reflect God’s will.

As we approach the holiday of Chanukah, we are reminded of the power of standing for justice and fighting for good over evil. Chanukah celebrates the miraculous victory of the Maccabees over the Syrian-Greek army and serves as an enduring testament to the strength of faith and righteousness.

All are invited to celebrate Chanukah with Chabad of Jamaica at our One Love, One Light music festival on Sunday, December 29, at Chances Beach in Negril. Open to the public, this event is a night of joy, celebration, and spiritual solidarity. Get your tickets now at www.lightjamaica.com.

Rabbi Raskin is Jamaica’s only Rabbi and co-directs Chabad of Jamaica with his wife, Chaya Mushka. Chabad is a one-stop for everything Jewish and a place dedicated to spreading acts of goodness and kindness to all humanity. For your comments and to receive a free ARK Charity Box (Acts of Routine Kindness), email info@jewishjamaica.com.