Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 9:5 mean?
A: Genesis 9:5 teaches that human life is sacred and that Hashem will hold accountable anyone who takes a life unjustly—whether it be an animal or a human. This verse comes after the flood, establishing a fundamental moral law for Noah and his descendants (the Noahide Laws). Rashi explains that this verse emphasizes the gravity of murder, as Hashem will demand justice for spilled blood.
Q: Why is Genesis 9:5 important in Judaism?
A: This verse is important because it establishes the prohibition against murder as one of the Seven Noahide Laws, which apply to all humanity. The Rambam (Maimonides) writes in Hilchot Melachim that this commandment is binding on both Jews and non-Jews. It underscores the infinite value of human life, as every person is created in the image of Hashem (Bereishit 9:6).
Q: What can we learn from Genesis 9:5 today?
A: We learn that human life must be protected and respected at all times. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 57a) derives from this verse that even indirect harm to others (such as negligence leading to death) can carry accountability. Today, this principle reminds us to uphold justice, avoid violence, and recognize the sanctity of every individual.
Q: Why does the verse mention animals being held accountable for killing humans?
A: Rashi explains that if an animal kills a person, it must be put to death (as seen in Shemot 21:28). This teaches that even animals are not permitted to act with uncontrolled violence against humans. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 34:13) adds that this law reinforces the idea that human life is uniquely precious and must be safeguarded.
Q: How does Genesis 9:5 relate to justice between people?
A: The phrase 'at the hand of every man’s brother' teaches that society must enforce justice when a life is taken unlawfully. The Sforno comments that this includes holding individuals and courts responsible for punishing murderers. This principle forms the basis of ethical governance and communal responsibility in Jewish law (Sanhedrin 73a).
Context and Source
The verse (Bereshit 9:5) appears in the aftermath of the flood, where Hashem establishes a covenant with Noach and his descendants, laying down fundamental moral and legal principles for humanity. This particular verse addresses the sanctity of human life and the prohibition against murder.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that the phrase "אֶדְרֹשׁ אֶת־נֶפֶשׁ הָאָדָם" ("I will require the life of man") means that Hashem will demand accountability from one who sheds blood. Rashi emphasizes that even if a beast kills a person, the beast must be put to death (based on Sanhedrin 57a), and if a human kills, they are subject to capital punishment. The repetition of "אֶדְרֹשׁ" ("I will require") underscores the severity of the sin.
Rambam's Legal Perspective
Rambam (Hilchot Rotzeach 1:1-2) derives from this verse the prohibition of murder, which applies universally to all descendants of Noach (the Seven Noahide Laws). He explains that one who kills another transgresses a divine commandment and is liable for capital punishment, as the verse states that Hashem will "require" justice for the bloodshed.
Midrashic Interpretation
The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 34:13) elaborates that the phrase "מִיַּד אִישׁ אָחִיו" ("at the hand of every man’s brother") teaches that even if the murderer is the victim’s brother—i.e., a close relative—justice must still be carried out. This reinforces the idea that no familial or social ties can exempt one from accountability for taking a life.
Sanhedrin 57a: The Noahide Law of Murder
The Talmud (Sanhedrin 57a) cites this verse as the source for the Noahide prohibition against murder. The Gemara explains that the phrase "אֶדְרֹשׁ אֶת־נֶפֶשׁ הָאָדָם" establishes that a murderer is subject to execution, whether the killer is human or even an animal (which must be killed in retribution).
Moral and Theological Implications