Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 6:18 mean when it says 'I will establish My covenant'?
A: In Genesis 6:18, Hashem promises Noach (Noah) that He will establish a covenant with him, ensuring his survival through the flood. According to Rashi, this refers to the future covenant Hashem would make with humanity after the flood (Genesis 9:9-17), symbolized by the rainbow. This shows Hashem's commitment to preserving life despite human wrongdoing.
Q: Why did Hashem specifically include Noach's family in the ark?
A: Hashem included Noach's family in the ark because Noach was righteous in his generation (Genesis 6:9). The Midrash teaches that while Noach's merit saved his immediate family, the rest of humanity was corrupt. Rambam explains that righteousness can bring protection to one's household, emphasizing the importance of personal spiritual growth.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Genesis 6:18 about covenants with Hashem?
A: Genesis 6:18 teaches that Hashem keeps His promises and establishes covenants with those who follow His ways. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 108a) discusses how Noach's faithfulness allowed him to be part of this covenant. This reminds us that commitment to Torah and mitzvos (commandments) brings a special relationship with Hashem.
Q: How does the concept of the ark apply to us today?
A: The ark symbolizes protection through devotion to Hashem. Just as Noach and his family were saved in the ark, the Talmud (Pirkei Avot 1:2) teaches that the world stands on Torah study, service of Hashem, and acts of kindness—these are our 'ark' today, guiding us through life's challenges.
Q: Why does the verse list Noach's family members in a specific order?
A: Rashi notes that the order—Noach, his sons, his wife, and his sons' wives—reflects the family structure and responsibility. Noach, as the leader, is mentioned first, followed by the next generation (his sons) and their spouses. This teaches the importance of family roles and continuity in Jewish tradition.
The Covenant with Noach
The verse (Bereishit 6:18) states: "But with thee will I establish My covenant; and thou shalt come into the ark, thou, and thy sons, and thy wife, and thy sons’ wives with thee." This marks the first explicit mention of a brit (covenant) in the Torah, establishing a foundational relationship between Hashem and Noach.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi comments that this covenant refers to the promise that Noach and his family would be saved from the flood. He notes that the term "בְּרִיתִי" (My covenant) implies a binding agreement, ensuring Noach's survival despite the impending destruction. Rashi further explains that this covenant was necessary to provide Noach with the assurance and strength to endure the challenging period ahead.
The Significance of the Ark's Inhabitants
The verse specifies that Noach, his sons, his wife, and his sons' wives would enter the ark. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 30:6) highlights that this grouping reflects the importance of family unity and continuity. The inclusion of both Noach's wife and his sons' wives emphasizes the role of women in ensuring the future of humanity, as they would bear the next generation after the flood.
Rambam's Perspective on Divine Covenants
Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 8:1) discusses the nature of divine covenants, explaining that they are not merely promises but involve mutual obligations. In Noach's case, the covenant required his obedience to Hashem's command to build the ark and gather the animals. This sets a precedent for future covenants in the Torah, where divine favor is coupled with human responsibility.
The Talmud's Insight on Noach's Righteousness
The Talmud (Sanhedrin 108a) discusses why Noach was chosen for this covenant, stating that he was "righteous in his generation". Some sages argue that this implies he was only relatively righteous compared to his corrupt contemporaries, while others maintain that he would have been righteous in any era. Regardless, the covenant underscores that Hashem rewards righteousness even in times of widespread moral decay.
Lessons for Future Generations