The 7 Noahide Laws can define the world

When we think of Noach we tend to envision a flood and a world covered with water. However, in the historical sense, the biblical saga of Noach is transcended by a short listing of mitzvo that, if observed properly, can properly define the civilizational quality of our world.

In an essay titled "Across the Great Divide: Between Jew and Non-Jew," in his commentary on Genesis, “Unlocking The Torah Text” (OU Press Urim Publishing House, 2007), Rabbi Shmuel Goldin teaches us the following:

"A monumental shift in focus nn scope, as the text has chronicled the world's creation and man's early generations. Now, however, the Torah's range narrows as it begins to tell the story of Avraham and his descendants, the chosen Jewish nation. 

"Before this shift takes place, however, a universal moral code for the world is laid out by G-d. This code, referred to in rabbinic literature as 'Sheva Mitzvot B'nai Noach' (the seven mitzvot of the children of Noach), or the Noachide code, is derived from a passage found at the end of the Noach narrative and consists of seven basic commandments. Taken together, these commandments form a moral blueprint for all civilizations.

"The seven Noachide laws are the following: do not steal, do not kill, do not eat from the limb of a living animal, do not commit acts of sexual immorality, do not practice idolatry, do not blaspheme G-d, and establish courts of law."

The above serves as a prelude to Rabbi Goldin's expansive explanation as to how these laws impact the civilizational structure of mankind. The open nature of Rabbi Goldin's presentation can be gleaned by reading his concluding summation entitled, "Points to Ponder," wherein he states the following: