D'var Torah: "These are the generations of Noah; Noah was a righteous man." The name, Noah, is derived from the Hebrew word nach, which connotes pleasantness and ease. In this light, we understand that Noah's personality radiated with pleasantness and kindness. HaShem deemed Noah to be a righteous man because of his pleasantness in all of his interactions. He demonstrated unyielding integrity and unabated care and concern for all of HaShem's creations. Noah was reliable and honest in all of his interpersonal dealings. Whenever he agreed to do something, it was for sure that he would deliver.
Moral: HaShem considers a person to be a tzadik when his personality and deeds are consistently pleasant. Noah's goodliness and kindliness permeated his being, and epitomized the adage of our ancient Sages: "A person who is pleasing to his fellow man is pleasing to HaShem." (Avos)
Application: Envision Noah as kindly sage, filled with compassion and kindness. He pleads with the wayward people of his generation to improve their ways and escape from the great flood. See him tend with great dedication and care to all the countless animals in the ark. Imagine how his personality sparkles with warmth, care, and love for all of HaShem's creations.
