1. The Meaning of “Tzaddik Tamim B’dorosav”
We started by defining the Torah’s description of Noach as an ish tzaddik tamim—a completely righteous man. The Torah emphasizes that he was a person who was upright and honest, and it adds the phrase b’dorosav—in his generations. What is the significance of this emphasis? Some commentaries explain that Noach was a tzaddik in his own generation, meaning that despite being surrounded by people who were corrupt and doing evil, he managed to remain righteous and not be influenced by those around him.
2. Two Interpretations of “B’dorosav”
There are two main approaches to understanding the phrase b’dorosav. One view sees it as praise: even in a generation full of wickedness, Noach stood out as a tzaddik. He was able to maintain his integrity despite negative influences. The other approach interprets it more critically: Noach was only considered righteous relative to the people around him. Had he lived in a different generation, such as that of Avraham or others, he would not have been considered such a great tzaddik.
3. Rashi’s Perspective and Its Implications
Rashi brings both interpretations, suggesting that b’dorosav can be seen either as praise or as a limitation on Noach’s righteousness. Even if we say that Noach was only righteous compared to his own generation and would not have measured up to Avraham, this does not truly diminish his greatness. He lived in a time when being righteous was especially difficult, so his accomplishments are still significant.
4. Noach’s Approach Versus Avraham’s
The Zohar discusses how Noach did not go out to influence or pray for the people of his generation. He waited for people to come to him with questions about the ark he was building, at which point he would tell them that Hashem was going to bring a flood. In contrast, Avraham actively sought out others to bring them closer to Hashem, and later Moshe Rabbeinu also prayed for his generation. Noach focused on himself and did not engage much with others, which is seen as a shortcoming compared to other tzaddikim.
5. Criticism and Praise in Rashi’s Commentary
A question arises: why does Rashi mention the negative aspect—that Noach was only righteous in his own generation? Why not focus solely on the positive—that he was a tzaddik even among such corrupt people? One answer is that the true test of a tzaddik is when there are mixed opinions about him; some will praise him while others will criticize him.
6. The Nature of True Tzidkus
If everyone speaks well of someone, it may mean they are simply pleasing everyone rather than standing up for what is right. A real tzaddik does what needs to be done regardless of public opinion, which often leads some people to speak against him while others support him. We see this with many great leaders—even with the Rebbe himself—who had both supporters and detractors because they stood firmly for their principles.
7. Lessons from Noach’s Example
Some interpret Rashi’s approach as highlighting this point: true righteousness is tested when one faces opposition or criticism for doing what is right. It is not about universal approval but about unwavering commitment to Hashem’s will, even when it is unpopular or misunderstood by others. This remains an important lesson from the story of Noach for all generations.