Embedded Files
The Ark
The synagogue contains an ark, or cabinet, where the Torah scrolls are kept.
The ark is is a cupboard at the front usually on the eastern wall so the congregation face Jerusalem when they face the ark.
It is the most important part of any synagogue.
the Torah scrolls are kept in the Ark when they are not being used
The Torah
Torah scrolls are in Hebrew
They are written out by hand and made of natural materials
They are treated with great respect and are “dressed” when not being used
They are tied together with a sash; wrapped in a cloth cover called a mantle; a metal breastplate is hung on the front to represent the breastplate that was worn by Temple priests in Jerusalem
The Torah is read from a raised platform (Bimah), and the rabbi speaks from a pulpit to explain the Torah.
The Bimah
When a Torah scroll is read in a synagogue, it is unrolled on a reading desk called a bimah.
The bimah is usually on a raised platform, and often in the middle of the synagogue so that everyone can hear the words of the Torah as they are read aloud.
Yad
When someone reads the Torah, they follow the words with a pointer called a yad so that the ink is not damaged by fingers
“yad” means “hand” because the tip is often shaped like a pointing hand
Hebrew is read from right to left – the opposite direction to English.
Menorah
a seven branched lampstand that burned day and night in the Temple
Some synagogues have their own menorah, (but some Jews feel that because the menorah was originally designed especially for the Temple, no other building should have one)
Instead, they have a nine branched lampstand or candelabra called a chanukkiah (used for Hanukkuh)
Ner Tamid
lamp that always burns at the front of the synagogue (usually over the doors of the Ark)
Represents the menorah that was permanently lit in the Temple (symbolises the presence of G-d).
A lamp (Ner Tamid) is kept burning at all times to remind people that God is present. (play at 1:37)
Ten Commandments
On the wall above the ark, two plaques represent the stone tablets that Moses brought down from Mount Sinai.
They were inscribed by G-d with the original Ten Commandments.
Rabbi and Chazzon
“Rabbi” means “teacher” (the person who has the responsibility to teach the Torah to the congregation)
The Rabbi spends a lot of time giving help and advice to the community.
Rabbi
Chazzon
The “Chazzon” or “cantor/singer” is the person who leads the prayers and hymns in a synagogue.
Page updated
Report abuse