Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean that Noah was 'a just man and perfect in his generations'?
A: Rashi explains that 'perfect in his generations' means Noah was righteous compared to the wicked people of his time. Some commentators say he would have been even greater in a more righteous generation, while others argue his righteousness was absolute. The term 'just' (צַדִּיק) refers to his moral integrity and adherence to God's will.
Q: Why does the Torah mention Noah 'walked with God'?
A: The phrase 'walked with God' (הִתְהַלֶּךְ־נֹחַ) means Noah lived in constant awareness of the Divine presence and followed God's commandments faithfully. Ramban explains that this describes his close relationship with God, similar to how Enoch 'walked with God' (Genesis 5:24). It emphasizes his devotion and ethical conduct.
Q: Why does the verse begin with 'These are the generations of Noah' before describing his righteousness?
A: The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 30:6) teaches that the phrase 'These are the generations of Noah' introduces his spiritual legacy—his righteousness and faithfulness. Unlike others who are introduced with physical descendants, Noah’s true 'generations' are his righteous deeds, which preserved the world and led to humanity's renewal after the flood.
Q: How can we apply Noah's example of 'walking with God' in our lives today?
A: The Talmud (Avodah Zarah 6a) teaches that walking with God means living with moral integrity and devotion to Torah values, even when surrounded by corruption. Like Noah, we must strive to uphold justice, kindness, and faithfulness to mitzvot, regardless of societal pressures.
Q: What is the significance of Noah being called 'perfect' (תָּמִים)?
A: The term 'perfect' (תָּמִים) implies wholeness in character—Noah was consistent in his righteousness. Rashi notes that some Sages debate whether this praise is relative (only compared to his wicked generation) or absolute. Either way, it teaches the importance of striving for spiritual completeness in serving God.
The Righteousness of Noach
The verse states, "Noaĥ was a just man and perfect in his generations" (בראשית ו:ט). Rashi explains that the phrase "in his generations" (בְּדֹרֹתָיו) is subject to debate among the Sages. Some interpret it favorably—that if Noach was righteous even in a corrupt generation, how much more so would he have been righteous in a generation of upright people. Others interpret it critically—that he was righteous only in comparison to his wicked generation, but had he lived in Avraham's time, he would not have been considered exceptional.
Walking with Hashem
The verse concludes, "and Noaĥ walked with God" (אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים הִתְהַלֶּךְ־נֹחַ). Ramban (Nachmanides) explains that walking with God denotes a high level of closeness to the Divine, where Noach conducted himself in constant awareness of Hashem's presence. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 30:10) contrasts this with Avraham, who is later described as walking "before God" (בראשית כד:מ), suggesting an even higher level of spiritual initiative.
The Term "Tamim" (Perfect)
The word "תָּמִים" (perfect) is interpreted by the Sforno to mean that Noach was complete in his moral character, free from corruption. The Talmud (Avodah Zarah 6a) connects this term to wholehearted devotion, emphasizing that Noach served Hashem with sincerity and without ulterior motives.
Generational Context
The generation of the Flood was steeped in theft and immorality (Sanhedrin 108a), making Noach's righteousness all the more remarkable. The Kli Yakar highlights that despite the pervasive corruption, Noach remained steadfast in his integrity, fulfilling the mitzvot given to him, including the prohibition against theft—a sin rampant in his time.