8.8: Features of a Synagogue

Question 1

What is the synagogue?

Answer 1

The Synagogue is the Jewish place of worship and is a reminder of the Temple in Jerusalem which it faces

Question 2

Features of a Synagogue:

Answer 2

• All have an Ark (were the Torah scrolls are kept) and a Bimah (reading platform for it)
• Ner Tamid is the ‘eternal light’ above the Ark – always burning as a reminder of God being eternal

Question 3

Importance of the Synagogue:

Answer 3

• Brings the Jewish family together
• Has many links to the Temple in Jerusalem that was destroyed
• Is a place of learning, not just prayer
• Is symbolic, will always face Jerusalem; light is in to show God, and always has a either a menorah or star of David to show fait

Question 4

Synagogue - denomination differences:

Answer 4

• In orthodox synagogues seating will be separate between men and women, the rabbi will always be a man and men will lead. Signing will not happen on Sabbath. In reformed seating is mixed, the rabbi may be female, and services wont always be in Hebrew.
• Orthodox will always have set design ark facing Jerusalem, Bimah in the centre seats around, not always the case for modern.

Question 5

Features of a Synagogue - Sources of Wisdom:

Answer 5

“A multitude of people is a king’s glory”
(Proverbs 14:28)