Importance of Synagogues

For a Jew who goes to a synagogue, this place has a double value: on the one hand, it is seen as a sacred place where one can pray and reaffirm his beliefs, and on the other, there is a space in which the members of a community can share their faith with others.

What can be found in synagogues?

Normally in the vestibule of the sanctuary there is a basket with kippahs or kipot, the circular ornament that Jews place on their heads before praying. In the same lobby, it is common for information to appear on those weekly activities related to the community, as well as programs that include the prayers to follow during the Shabbat morning service.

Finally, at the entrance there are different sizes and styles of tallit, the clothing that must be worn during prayers (before placing the tallit it is customary to perform a blessing in the form of prayer).

Once the faithful are inside the synagogue, it is possible to appreciate some architectural elements and various components. Thus, it is common to find plaques in which the names of those members of the community that have already died appear. In addition to the benches and chairs, there is a pulpit, or bimah, where the rabbi officiates during the Shabbat ceremony.

In the middle of the synagogue is the ark or Aron Kodesh in which the Torah is deposited.

Above the ark there is a small hanging lamp called Ner Tamid and it always remains lit because it symbolizes eternal light.

The prayer books are placed on the synagogue benches, which are usually written in Hebrew and in the language of each community. Regarding the reading of the Torah in the synagogues, it should be noted that a different part is read each week.

Regarding the design and characteristics Architecturally, synagogues do not have a general pattern, as is the case with most Catholic churches. An important aspect in any synagogue is its orientation, since all of them are oriented to the city of Jerusalem.

The role of the rabbi and the faithful during the religious ceremony

In most synagogues the rabbi has the habit of directing his gaze to the congregation of faithful standing in front of the bimá. In it Judaism the rabbi is the interpreter of Jewish law, the highest religious authority, and a spiritual advisor to the community as a whole.

Depending on the prayer, the faithful remain seated or standing, but at the moment the chest containing the Torah is opened, all those present stand up as a sign of I respect.

Image. Importance