This content has been archived. It may no longer be relevant
Articles
Articles
One G-d
Noahide Institute Sponsors New Torah for UN Headquarters
On March 3, a new Sefer Torah (Torah scroll) was presented to the United Nations, with the words “Unity and…
Agha Shaukat Jafri on Islam
Almino Malaza
edit
ArchivesVideo
FBI at the JCM…
Almino Malaza
EventsEvents and Photos
Noahide Activities and Photos June 14, 2018
UN watch Oct 2016
Human Rights foundation -Javier El Hage and UN Watch= Hillel Neuer with…
Marvin Rudenstein on faith
Most Read
Universal Noahide Code at UN HQ
Maimonides in the Era…
Almino Malaza
edit
ArchivesArticlesEvents
High-Level Panel on The Role of Parliaments for Building Peaceful and Inclusive Societies and Combating Violent Extremism
Almino Malaza
edit
ArchivesArticles
Laws of Noah in Ghana
Almino Malaza
edit
ArchivesArticles
Body: The Physical World
King Solomon’s Brilliant Verdict…
INSIDER
Noahide Institute Sponsors New Torah for UN Headquarters
On March 3, a new Sefer Torah (Torah scroll) was presented to…
United Nations HQ Menorah
INSTITUTE OF NOAHIDE CODE INVITES THE UN PRESS CORPS The HISTORIC U.N.…
Mikvah in Portugal
Moment of Silence
Purim 2020 UN HQ
Universal Noahide Code at UN HQ
Purim 2020 UN HQ
UN HQ Chanukah party 2019- 2020
In the press 2 24, 2020
Rabbi Y Goldstein in UN GA
Articles
Events
edit
ArchivesArticles
Maimonides in That Era
MOBILIZING CULTURAL AND RELIGIOUS ETHICS – United Nations HQ 2015
IDC Conference : 9-20-2017
The Universal Noahide Code is one for peace.. Jewish Sages explain that…
Rabbi Boaz Kali & Yehosha Levy II
Almino Malaza
edit
ArchivesArticles
Importance of Noahide laws… a Moment
Almino Malaza
edit
ArchivesArticles
Jews & non-Jews: Dual Roles…
Almino Malaza
edit
ArchivesArticles
The 30 Mitzvot of the Bnei Noah
‘Rav Yehuda Says: This verse (Zacharia 11:12) refers to the thirty righteous…
Reb Avi Piamenta sings…
Historic Chanukah Celebration at the United Nations: Promoting Peace, Freedom, and Unity
By Rabbi Yakov D. Cohen
Director, Institute of Noahide Code (U.N. NGO)
The Chanukah celebration is a powerful symbol of hope, faith, and the triumph of light over darkness. This year, the *Institute of Noahide Code, a recognized **United Nations NGO, is proud to invite members of the international community and the press corps to attend a historic *Menorah Lighting Ceremony taking place at the Isaiah Wall across from the United Nations Headquarters in New York City.
The ceremony will be held at *Isaiah Wall / Ralph Bunche Park, located at **1st Avenue and 43rd Street, from *December 15–22, 2025, at 5:00 PM daily. Diplomats, ambassadors, and global leaders will gather to light the Menorah and share remarks celebrating peace, freedom, and religious unity.
The Meaning of the Menorah
The lighting of the Menorah traces its roots to a historic moment when a small group courageously confronted a powerful army determined to suppress religious freedom. Their victory became a timeless reminder that faith, resilience, and dedication to liberty can overcome oppression.
Today, the Menorah stands as a universal symbol of freedom and spiritual light. Each evening during Chanukah, an additional candle is lit, gradually increasing the light during one of the darkest periods of the year. This tradition reflects humanity’s continuous aspiration to bring more goodness, understanding, and compassion into the world.
Across many countries, political leaders and community representatives participate in Menorah lighting ceremonies within Jewish communities, demonstrating solidarity and respect for religious freedom and cultural heritage.
A Message of Peace at the United Nations
The significance of this ceremony is magnified by its location. The *Isaiah Wall, situated directly across from the United Nations Headquarters, bears the prophetic vision from the Book of Isaiah that *“nation shall not lift up sword against nation.”** It calls for a future where weapons are transformed into tools of cultivation and peace.
As Director of the *Institute of Noahide Code, I am deeply moved each time I approach this sacred space. The *Seven Laws of Noah, which serve as the foundation of our institute’s mission, encourage humanity to strive for unity and harmony. These universal principles promote:
- Respect for God
- Protection of human life
- The sanctity of the family
- Respect for property
- Establishment of fair judicial systems
- Compassion for all living creatures and the environment
Together, these values provide a moral framework through which humanity can pursue peace and coexistence.
Celebrating Unity and Human Rights
The United Nations recognizes the importance of *human rights, including the fundamental freedom of religion. In that spirit, the Menorah Lighting Ceremony will be *open to people of all races, religions, and ethnic backgrounds, including visitors and members of the international diplomatic community.
The celebration serves as a reminder that despite differences in culture or belief, humanity shares common aspirations: justice, freedom, dignity, and peace.
Menorah of Peace Award
During this year’s ceremony, the President of the General Assembly together with distinguished ambassadors will receive the Menorah of Peace Award. This recognition honors leaders who demonstrate dedication to fostering global harmony, tolerance, and cooperation among nations.
Past ceremonies have brought together diplomats, faith leaders, and advocates committed to building bridges across cultures and promoting dialogue among civilizations.
A Global Call for Light
At a time when the world faces many challenges, the symbolism of the Menorah becomes even more meaningful. Each flame represents the possibility that light can overcome darkness and that unity can prevail over division.
The Chanukah celebration at the United Nations stands not only as a Jewish tradition but also as a global message of hope — a call for humanity to pursue peace, protect freedom, and embrace the shared values that unite us all.
With gratitude and blessings,
Rabbi Yakov Dovid Cohen
Director, Institute of Noahide Code
United Nations NGO
