Who can be exempt from commandments?
Hello and blessings,
We are continuing the fascinating study of the second chapter of the book “Brit Shalom”, which lays out the foundational principles of halachic rulings for the Noahides.
Here, we are examining paragraph 10, which discusses individuals who are exempt from commandments. Who can be exempt from commandments? A young child is exempt, and so is a mentally incapacitated person, commonly referred to as a "fool." Additionally, in the times of our sages during the Talmudic era, a person who was deaf and unable to hear was also exempt from commandments due to a lack of intellectual capacity.
However, this has changed due to technological advancements. Here's the text: "A deaf-mute from birth, meaning a person who neither hears nor speaks since birth, and anyone lacking intellectual capacity—such as fools or small children—are exempt from the commandments. However, in our days, even a deaf-mute possesses intellectual capacity. Today’s technology allows communication with the deaf without words, making them people of intellectual capacity, and they are, of course, obligated in the commandments."
Now, we encounter an important question in paragraph 11, which deals with self-sacrifice for the observance of commandments. For example, if a Jew is compelled to worship idols, commit murder, or engage in forbidden sexual relations, halacha dictates that they must give up their life rather than commit these acts. However, for other commandments—for instance, being compelled to steal or face death—the halacha permits stealing to save one’s life.
What is the law for Noahides? The halacha states as follows: "Noahides are not obligated to sacrifice their lives to avoid violating their commandments, except in the case of murder. For instance, if a Noahide is told, 'Kill or be killed,' they must refuse to kill, even at the cost of their own life. For other commandments, they are not obligated to do so."
Is a Noahide permitted to sacrifice their life voluntarily? Here is a significant innovation: "One who wishes to sacrifice their life to avoid violating commandments is permitted and thereby sanctifies God's name, even though they are not obligated to do so."
