The seventh Noahide Law is “Establish courts of justice and ensure justice in society.” This law requires that society establish a legal system that is based on the principles of justice, fairness, and equality. It is in part derived from the verse in Genesis 9:6 which states:
This verse is understood to imply the establishment of a legal system to administer justice and punishment for crimes.
The Talmud (Sanhedrin 56a) expands on this requirement by stating:
A human court may not execute anyone until it has established its own court of law and two [sets of] witnesses.
This establishes the requirement for a legal system that includes a court of law, judges, and procedures for determining guilt or innocence.
Maimonides, in his Mishneh Torah, Laws of Kings and their Wars 9:14, explains that this law requires the establishment of courts of law that are authorized to enforce the seven Noahide Laws, as well as any other laws that are necessary for maintaining social order and justice. He writes:
Every society is obligated to appoint judges and officers to administer justice and to establish courts of law...to render judgment in all disputes.
The requirement for a court system is not limited to the punishment of crimes, but also extends to the protection of civil rights and freedoms. The Noachide Code, compiled by Rabbi Moshe Weiner, explains that this law requires that society establish a system of justice that is based on objective standards of right and wrong, and that is free from corruption and bias. This includes the establishment of courts and judges who are impartial and fair, and who are dedicated to upholding the rule of law, designed to protect the rights and freedoms of all individuals, regardless of their race, religion, or social status. This includes the protection of human life and property, as well as the protection of civil liberties such as freedom of speech, religion, and association.
The seventh Noahide Law builds upon the foundation of the previous six laws by providing a framework for implementing and enforcing them in a fair and just manner. It is not a summary of the previous six laws, but rather a separate requirement that is distinct from the others. While the previous six laws focus on specific ethical and moral behaviors that are required of all people, the seventh law focuses on the establishment of a legal system that is necessary for ensuring that these laws are enforced, and that justice is served. It is a necessary component for ensuring that these laws are effectively implemented and enforced.