Hello and blessings,
Throughout the entire book Brit Shalom, we present two types of halachot (Jewish laws). There are obligatory halachot, meaning that a Noahide is required to adhere to the halachot listed in the book. However, there are also additional matters found in Jewish halachah that are not part of Noahide law. Despite this, it is advisable to adopt these practices, even though they are not obligatory; they are good advice.
Here’s how I phrase it: “Many matters related to idolatry are prohibited for the people of Israel to ensure they keep far away from it, but these matters are not explicitly forbidden for Noahides. Nonetheless, it is good conduct that should be followed when possible. These are the practices.”
Then I list several recommended practices. As mentioned, these are not mandatory.
For example, it is advisable to avoid reading books about idolatry. For Israelites, Rambam (Maimonides) explicitly states that it is forbidden to read books written by idolaters about idolatrous practices. However, sometimes a person needs to know, whether out of intellectual curiosity or—more importantly—if they serve as a judge among Noahides. In that case, they must know. “For Noahide scholars who teach these laws, it is proper to be knowledgeable.” The same applies to Israelite scholars who must be well-versed in all matters, including idolatry.
Another example is that it is advisable not to praise idolatry, such as saying that a particular idol is beautiful or attractive. Certainly, one should not decorate or light candles in its honor. However, if these actions are part of the idolatrous ritual itself (e.g., lighting candles is an act of worship), then it is explicitly forbidden.
If lighting a candle is part of the idolatrous practice, it is forbidden in any case. If it is just for decoration or tourism purposes—like when tourists want to observe a candle-lighting ritual—it is technically permitted but still preferable to avoid.
Additionally, it is recommended to avoid certain practices:
- Haircuts or beard grooming in a style associated with idolaters.
- Tattoos or any bodily harm similar to the customs of idolaters.
Some idol worshipers scratch themselves, draw blood, or get tattoos as part of their rituals. All of these are forbidden for Israelites and are recommended to be avoided by Noahides as well.
The same applies to shaving a bald spot on the head or making cuts on the body as a sign of mourning for the dead. Sometimes, when a person experiences grief over the death of a loved one, they might scratch or injure themselves in sorrow—this is forbidden.
Another example: what happens if someone drops a ring near an idol? Suppose a person’s ring falls to the ground near a statue of an idol. Or if they drop coins near it—they should not bend down to retrieve the items immediately. Instead, they should sit down first and then pick them up to avoid appearing as if they are worshiping the idol.
