After the Flood, God commanded Noah and his sons and established seven commandments for all humanity. They are listed in the Talmud (Sanhedrin 56a) and explained by Maimonides (Laws of Kings and Wars 8:10–11). A person who observes them in recognition that God commanded them in His Torah is called one of the “righteous among the nations” and has a share in the World to Come.
Justice — Establish Courts and Uphold Fairness
The obligation to establish a just legal system and resolve disputes between people according to Torah law. This first commandment is not a prohibition but a call to action: creating a social order in which the vulnerable retain their rights and truth stands above power.
Source: Genesis 9:6; Maimonides, Laws of Kings 9:14
Respect God's Name — Do Not Blaspheme
The prohibition against cursing the name of the Holy One, blessed be He, or the One to whom that name refers. Behind this prohibition lies a positive responsibility: recognizing the distinction between the world and its Judge, and approaching the Creator with respect and reverence.
Source: Leviticus 24:16; Babylonian Talmud, Sanhedrin 56a
Reject Idolatry — Recognize the Oneness of the Creator
The prohibition against worshipping any power other than the Creator of the world — whether stars, trees, or people. It means recognizing that all created beings have one Creator, and that worship belongs to Him alone. This commandment expresses the foundation of faith.
Source: Exodus 20:5; Maimonides, Laws of Kings 9:1
Family Morality — Uphold the Sanctity of the Family
Establishing boundaries for marriage and avoiding relationships forbidden by the Torah. This commandment sanctifies the bond between husband and wife and the family as a foundation of human society, protecting the dignity and peace of the home.
Source: Genesis 2:24; Babylonian Talmud, Sanhedrin 56a
Respect Human Life — Do Not Murder
The most severe of the seven prohibitions: do not kill or harm human life, including your own. Human beings were created in the image of God, and their lives are sacred.
“Whoever sheds the blood of man through man, his blood shall be shed, for in the image of God He made man.”
Source: Genesis 9:6
Honesty with Property — Do Not Steal
The prohibition against unlawfully taking another person's money, goods, or anything else — including depriving someone of a benefit or seizing their property. This commandment establishes financial honesty, respect for ownership, and fairness between people.
Source: Leviticus 19:13; Babylonian Talmud, Sanhedrin 56a
Respect Animals — Do Not Eat Flesh Taken from a Living Animal
The prohibition against eating a limb taken from an animal while it is alive. This commandment teaches compassion and concern for animal suffering. Even an animal that people are permitted to use deserves to live and die with dignity; cruelty is not permitted.
Source: Genesis 9:4; Babylonian Talmud, Chullin 102b
Living the Commandments Every Day
The seven commandments are not merely a list of prohibitions, but a way of life: faith and prayer, truth and honesty in business, respect for others and protection of life, nurturing a family in holiness, and contributing to social justice. For practical questions and personal guidance, consult a rabbi qualified in this area.