Jerusalem’s historic ‘Bishop’s House’ sold for NIS 59 million

Delegates and leaders from Noahide communities on six continents convened in Jerusalem on Monday for the inaugural International Congress of Noahides. The five-day summit, organized by the Jerusalem-based Noahide World Center (Brit Olam), took place at the Seven Arches Hotel on Mount of Olives. The event united active groups from over 70 countries worldwide, marking the first time these communities have gathered to establish global organizational structures and governance.

Noahides are non-Jews who follow the Seven Laws of Noah, universal moral principles from the Torah prohibiting idolatry, blasphemy, murder, theft, sexual immorality, cruelty to animals, and establishing a legal system. Unlike proselytizing traditions, Judaism does not seek converts, instead offering a unique spiritual path rooted in ancient biblical covenant.

At this founding assembly, participants engaged in workshops to develop shared institutional frameworks, including the first international Beit Din, a rabbinical court with Rabbi Cherki as Chief Justice. Sessions also focused on drafting the Brit Shalom legal code and Noahide prayer book. Attendees reflected on the historical significance, noting the hotel's construction in 1964 during a period when Jewish access to East Jerusalem was restricted.

Rabbi Cherki emphasized this moment as a pivotal step in uniting communities following the revival of Jewish sovereignty, offering a universal vision for humanity.