Rebuking Neighbors: A Noachide Obligation?
Reader:
Hello Rabbi. I hope all is well. I recognize how important it is for a Jew to
rebuke his fellow Jew. What is the obligation, if any, of a Ben Noach in
regards to correction? If a gentile gently rebukes his neighbor with only good
intentions, and it falls under the 7 Laws (which just about any would) ... is
this not teaching Torah? If correction of one’s fellow is an obligation, or
even simply permitted for gentiles, is it limited to other gentiles only?
Mesora: I discussed your question with Rabbi Reuven Man who reminded me
of a similar conversation we had last year. He said that all which deals with
perfection applies equally to a Ben Noach, as to a Jew. Rebuking others is
something you should do. It is teaching Torah, and you may teach Torah as well.
What is prohibited is to engage in Torah study, which is not for any
application, but to simply theorize. In this case, Rabbi Mann felt that this is
where the prohibition exists. To retain the Jew as the Torah source, Torah
study is limited to him. This is for the well being of all people, Ben Noach
and Jew. Retaining the Jew as the sole Torah authority keeps the identity of
Torah intact, as only those who diligently study it, will proliferate it. Torah
will continue on taught by those with the greatest understanding.
Reader: If a Ben Noach attends a class given by a Rabbi, to what degree
is the gentile allowed to give his thoughts on a subject? Does that change when
the gentile is alone with the Rabbi as opposed to with a group?
Mesora: You may engage in study freely in all venues.
Reader:
If the gentile gives a thought not his own and gives credit to a Rabbi for the
thought, would it be permitted?”
Mesora: Certainly.
Reader:
If a Ben Noach notices a Jewish man setting a bad example... is the Ben Noah to
mind his own business? Or approach the man if the violation is clear, and the
gentile’s intentions are good?
Mesora: Certainly you may rebuke the Jew.