Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the 'token of the covenant' mentioned in Genesis 9:17?
A: The 'token of the covenant' refers to the rainbow, as mentioned earlier in Genesis 9:12-16. According to Rashi, the rainbow serves as a sign of Hashem's promise never again to destroy the world with a flood. It is a visible reminder of the covenant between Hashem and all living creatures.
Q: Why did Hashem establish a covenant with all flesh after the flood?
A: After the flood, Hashem established this covenant to reassure humanity and all living creatures that He would never again bring such destruction. The Rambam explains that this demonstrates Hashem's mercy and commitment to creation, even when human behavior is flawed. The covenant includes all living beings, emphasizing the sanctity of all life.
Q: How does the covenant with Noach apply to us today?
A: The covenant with Noach, including the rainbow as its sign, remains eternally binding. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 59a) teaches that the Noachide laws, which include prohibitions against murder and cruelty to animals, stem from this covenant and apply to all humanity. Jews have additional mitzvot, but this universal covenant sets basic moral expectations for everyone.
Q: What can we learn from Hashem making a covenant with Noach?
A: We learn about Hashem's kindness and the importance of trust in His promises. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 35:3) highlights that the rainbow symbolizes peace between heaven and earth. Just as Hashem keeps His word, we too should strive to be trustworthy and uphold our commitments in relationships with others and with Hashem.
Q: Why is the rainbow specifically chosen as the sign of the covenant?
A: Rashi explains that the rainbow resembles a bow turned upward, symbolizing that Hashem has 'set aside' His weapon (judgment) in favor of mercy. The Zohar adds that the rainbow's colors represent divine compassion shining through the clouds of judgment. It serves as a visual reminder of Hashem's patience and love for creation.
The Covenant with Noaḥ and All Flesh
The verse (Bereshit 9:17) describes Hashem's declaration to Noaḥ regarding the ot habrit (token of the covenant) established after the flood. Rashi explains that this "token" refers to the rainbow, as mentioned in the preceding verses (9:12-16), which serves as a visible sign of Hashem's promise never again to destroy all life with a flood.
The Nature of the Covenant
Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 9:1) discusses the Seven Noaḥide Laws, which are binding upon all humanity. While this verse does not explicitly list these laws, it establishes the foundational relationship between Hashem and all of humanity through Noaḥ. The rainbow symbolizes this universal covenant, distinct from the later covenants with Avraham and the Jewish people at Sinai.
Symbolism of the Rainbow
The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 35:3) offers multiple interpretations of the rainbow's symbolism:
The Eternal Nature of the Promise
The Talmud (Chagigah 16a) notes that when rainbows appear frequently, it may indicate a generation deserving of punishment, yet spared due to this covenant. The Maharal (Gur Aryeh on Bereshit 9:12) explains that the rainbow demonstrates Hashem's commitment to maintaining the natural order, despite human failings.
Distinction from Later Covenants
Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch emphasizes that this covenant is with kol basar (all flesh), encompassing all living creatures, unlike subsequent covenants that are specifically with the Jewish people. This universal dimension highlights Hashem's providence over all creation.