Parasha Minute: Genesis / BreisheetНамуна

"The Story of Noah"

This portion’s opening lines introduce a new character, Noach (Noah), who is singled out for his exemplary faith in a fallen, decaying world. God sends a flood to rid the earth of violence and corruption. No doubt the flood story is one we have heard as children. In fact, it is found in several cultures, including the ancient Babylonian, Greek, and Mayan civilizations. A closer look at Noah and his descendants reveals how calamity shaped the early history of God’s people. Out of the multitudes who peopled the earth before the flood, God separated one family – Noach, his wife; their sons Shem, Ham, and Yefet (Japheth) - from which to restart humanity.

Ultimately and even more importantly, the flood determined how God dealt with humankind for generations to come. Reflection / Prayer: Lord, we thank You for the example set by Noach, whose faith You counted as righteousness. In these troubling times, we ask that our faith sets us apart and keeps us in step with You.