Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the rainbow symbolize in Genesis 9:14?
A: In Orthodox Jewish tradition, the rainbow is a sign of Hashem's covenant with the world after the flood, as explained in Genesis 9:11-17. It symbolizes that Hashem will never again destroy the entire world with a flood. The Ramban (Nachmanides) teaches that the rainbow serves as a reminder of this divine promise.
Q: Why is the rainbow specifically mentioned in connection with clouds in this verse?
A: Rashi explains that the rainbow appears in the cloud to serve as a visible sign of Hashem's covenant. The cloud represents potential judgment (as clouds often symbolize divine concealment or severity), while the rainbow within it is a reminder of mercy and the promise not to bring another flood.
Q: Is there a special blessing said when seeing a rainbow?
A: Yes, the Talmud (Berachot 59a) teaches that upon seeing a rainbow, one recites the blessing: 'Baruch Atah Hashem...Zocher HaBrit V'Ne'eman Bivrito V'Kayam B'Maamaro' ('Blessed are You, Hashem...Who remembers the covenant, is faithful to His covenant, and keeps His word'). This connects directly to the covenant mentioned in Genesis 9:14.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: The rainbow reminds us of Hashem's mercy even in times when judgment might be warranted. The Midrash teaches that when we see a rainbow, it should inspire us to reflect on our actions and strive for improvement, as the generation of the flood was punished for their sins. The presence of the rainbow shows that Hashem prefers mercy over strict judgment.
Q: Why don't we actively seek to see rainbows if they represent Hashem's covenant?
A: The Talmud (Ketubot 77b) explains that in certain generations of great righteousness (like that of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai), rainbows were never seen because their merit alone protected the world. Thus, seeing a rainbow is bittersweet—it confirms Hashem's promise, but also indicates that the generation's merits aren't sufficient on their own. Therefore, we don't actively seek them out.
Context in the Torah
This verse appears in Bereishit (Genesis) 9:14, following the narrative of the flood and Hashem's covenant with Noach. The rainbow (keshet) is established as a sign of this eternal covenant, assuring humanity that the world will never again be destroyed by a flood.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Genesis 9:14) explains that the rainbow appears specifically in the cloud as a reminder of Hashem's mercy. He notes that the presence of a rainbow indicates that the world deserves judgment due to its sins, but Hashem chooses to withhold punishment in fulfillment of His covenant. The cloud represents potential judgment, while the rainbow symbolizes divine compassion.
Rambam's Perspective
In Moreh Nevuchim (Guide for the Perplexed 2:6), Rambam interprets the rainbow as a natural phenomenon, but one that serves a theological purpose. He emphasizes that the Torah uses the rainbow—an already existing natural occurrence—as a sign to remind humanity of Hashem's promise and to inspire repentance.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic and Kabbalistic Dimensions
The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 229:1) rules that one who sees a rainbow should recite the blessing: "Baruch...Zocher HaBrit" ("Blessed...Who remembers the covenant"), acknowledging Hashem's faithfulness to His promise. Kabbalistic sources (e.g., Zohar I:72b) associate the rainbow with the divine attribute of mercy (chesed) shining through judgment (din).
Moral Lesson
This verse reminds us that even in times of potential judgment (the cloud), Hashem provides a sign of His enduring covenant. The rainbow calls humanity to reflect on its actions and return to righteousness, knowing that divine mercy is ever-present.