Teachers - Primary - Religious Education

Judaism: The Synagogue

The synagogue or shul as it is often called by the Jewish community, is a Jewish community centre. It has three Hebrew names which mean: house of meeting, house of study and house of prayer. Each one says something about what the synagogue is for and how it is used. Architecturally there are few rules about the building of a synagogue. Indeed through history they have reflected the style, and traditions of the time and place in which they are built. However they may be identified externally perhaps by a menorah (the seven branched candelabrum) or by the magen David (shield or ‘star’ of David).

All synagogues have an Ark, a cupboard containing the Torah scrolls, which is usually on the wall facing Jerusalem. Above the Ark is the Ner Tamid, an ‘eternal light’ perpetually burning. Many synagogues have a bimah from where the Torah is read and prayers are led. Traditionally the bimah faces the Ark. While worship takes place anywhere, in the daily observances of religious life and particularly in the home, the synagogue is important in encouraging a sense of community.

Most prayers are thanks and praise for God; some are prayers of petition, asking God to give or do something for the community or the world.

The siddur is the prayer book. It represents the accumulation of prayers of the Jewish people from many countries over many centuries and by using it Jews reaffirm their collective identity and history.

Etiquette on visiting a synagogue:

All men are required to cover their heads. Synagogues often have a kippah or two to spare for visitors. Please remember not to take food with you on a visit because of the kosher rules. Always ask if it is permissible to take photographs.

Click on the link for local Synagogues.