Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 9:9 mean when Hashem says 'I establish My covenant with you'?
A: This verse refers to the covenant (brit) that Hashem made with Noach and all humanity after the flood. According to Rashi, this is the covenant of the 'Seven Noahide Laws,' which are basic moral laws given to all descendants of Noach. The Rambam (Hilchos Melachim 9:1) explains that this covenant includes prohibitions against idolatry, blasphemy, murder, theft, sexual immorality, eating flesh from a living animal, and the obligation to establish courts of justice.
Q: Why is the covenant in Genesis 9:9 important for Jews today?
A: While this covenant was given to all humanity (Bnei Noach), it forms the foundation for understanding the special covenant later made with Avraham and the Jewish people. The Midrash (Bereishis Rabbah 34:9) teaches that Hashem's willingness to make covenants shows His desire for a relationship with humanity. For Jews, it highlights that our later covenant at Sinai (with the Torah) builds upon these universal principles.
Q: What does 'and with your seed after you' mean in Genesis 9:9?
A: The phrase teaches that Hashem's covenant applies not just to Noach's generation, but to all future generations. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 59a) derives from this that the Noahide laws are eternally binding on all humanity. Ramban explains that this shows Hashem's covenants are not temporary, but extend through time to all descendants.
Q: How is the covenant in Genesis 9:9 different from the covenant with Avraham?
A: The covenant with Noach (Genesis 9) establishes basic universal laws for all humanity, while the covenant with Avraham (Genesis 17) creates a special relationship with the Jewish people that includes additional commandments. The Midrash (Bereishis Rabbah 49:2) compares this to a king who gives general laws to all citizens, but gives his closest servants additional special instructions.
Q: What practical lesson can we learn from Genesis 9:9 today?
A: This verse teaches that Hashem wants humanity to live by moral principles. The Sforno explains that the covenant comes after the flood to show that proper behavior prevents destruction. Today, this reminds us that all people - Jews observing Torah and non-Jews observing Noahide laws - have a divine covenant guiding them toward ethical living and connection with Hashem.
The Eternal Covenant with Avraham and His Descendants
The verse (Bereishit 17:7) states: "And behold, I establish My covenant with you, and with your seed after you". This is part of Hashem's promise to Avraham Avinu during the covenant of brit milah (circumcision). Rashi explains that this establishes an everlasting bond between Hashem and the Jewish people, emphasizing that the covenant is not only with Avraham but extends to all future generations.
The Nature of the Covenant
Rambam (Hilchot Milah 3:9) teaches that this covenant is one of the foundational mitzvot of the Torah, symbolizing the unique relationship between Hashem and Klal Yisrael. The Sforno adds that this covenant represents a mutual commitment: just as Avraham and his descendants are bound to serve Hashem, so too does Hashem pledge to be their G-d eternally.
Generational Continuity
The phrase "with your seed after you" underscores the transmission of this covenant through the generations. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 46:9) explains that this ensures the covenant remains valid even if future generations stray, as Hashem's promise is unconditional. However, the Ramban notes that while the covenant is eternal, its benefits are contingent upon the Jewish people upholding their responsibilities.
Key Themes in Traditional Sources