Following on from my first question: (would moderate Muslims, unhappy with extremist Islam, find Talmidaism attractive) and its answer that Torah might put them off, I asked a second question:
You said:
I wondered: if moderate Muslims might find a Torah-lifestyle too difficult an adjustment, would they find it easier to become Talmidi Yahwists (Noahides) instead (i.e. Talmidaism without the rituals of Torah, or having to identify as Jews)?
ChatGPT said:
Yes, moderate Muslims who are drawn to the ethics and spirituality of Talmidaism but find the Torah lifestyle too difficult, might find it easier to embrace Talmidi Yahwism (Noahidism) (i.e., Talmidaism without the full Torah rituals, and without the need to identify as Jews). Here’s why:
1. Ethical Monotheism Without Legal Burden
- Many moderate Muslims already follow strict religious rules in Islam (e.g., dietary laws, prayer obligations, fasting). Shifting to full Torah observance might feel overwhelming.
- Talmidi Yahwism focuses on universal ethics (honesty, justice, compassion, etc.) without requiring complex laws, making it a smoother transition.
- Talmidi Yahwism is ideal for former Muslims who find it difficult to identify as Jewish (and who feel closer to the people of their birth), and who would not wish to follow Jewish customs or rituals.
- Yahwism is the ancient way of life followed by non-Hebrews in the Bible at the time of Abraham (such as the Jebusites in Jerusalem, and Jethro’s Kenite tribe of Midianites in Arabia).
- Yahwism is based on the religion of heaven, Tsédeq (literally, ‘Righteousness’), which Talmidaism considers to be the natural, God-given religion of the human heart; it is therefore the ideal version of ethical Talmidaism for former Muslims of all nationalities and cultural backgrounds.
2. Retaining a Personal Relationship with God (YHVH)
- Muslims who cherish their direct connection to God might appreciate that Talmidi Yahwism allows for prayer and worship without rigid formalities.
- Unlike Islam, where ritual purity and Arabic recitations are often required, Talmidi Yahwism / Noahidism emphasizes heartfelt devotion over strict ritual correctness.
- Talmidaism emphasises that YHVH has a knowable personality, and that YHVH is near and approachable (Talmidaism encourages a close, personal, and ongoing daily relationship with YHVH).
3. Acceptance of Yeshua’s Teachings Without Christianity
- Muslims already respect Jesus (Isa) but reject Christian theology (e.g., Trinity, original sin).
- Talmidi Yahwism / Noahidism allows them to follow Yeshua’s ethical teachings without adopting Torah laws or Christian doctrines (Talmidaism views modern Christianity as the religion founded by Paul of Tarsus; in contrast, the religion taught by Yeshua was ’The Way’ [the ancient name of what is now called Talmidaism])
4. Avoidance of Cultural & Social Barriers
- Talmidi Yahwism does not require a non-Jew to become Jewish
- Full Torah observance might require dramatic lifestyle changes, like dietary shifts (e.g., kosher slaughter), Sabbath restrictions, and different holiday observances.
- Talmidi Yahwism / Noahidism allows full moral alignment with Talmidaism, without requiring them to abandon aspects of their ethnic cultural identity.
5. Freedom from Religious Extremism & Dogma
- Moderate Muslims frustrated with Islamic fundamentalism might prefer a belief system that emphasizes free rational thought and personal reasoning.
- Talmidi Noahidism provides a rational, ethical faith without the pressures of dogma, rigid theology, or political entanglements.
Potential Challenges
- Some Muslims might still feel deeply attached to the Quran and Islamic traditions, making any transition difficult.
- Fear of being seen as an “apostate” could be a barrier, especially in stricter Muslim communities.
- Accepting Yeshua’s teachings in any form—even outside Christianity—might be difficult for those raised with an Islamic view of prophethood.
Conclusion
Talmidi Yahwism (Noahidism) offers a compelling alternative for moderate Muslims who want to embrace a rational, ethical, and YHVH-centered faith without the burden of Torah rituals. It preserves core values of justice, compassion, and worship of the One God while providing spiritual freedom from religious extremism and legalism.
All ChatGPT answers in this thread:
Ask ChatGPT Question #2: Would Moderate Muslims find Talmidi Noahidism more attractive?