Synagogue Essay

The History of the Synagogue The synagogue has been one of the most important aspects of practicing the Jewish religion. The word synagogue comes from a Greek origin meaning to gather or come together. Prayer can be practiced any day of the week and is usually in small groups. Praying as a single is not common in Judaism but praying with a group of guys or with a group of girls is common. The leader of the prayer at a synagogue is what 's known as the Rabbi. Rabbi’s can also be teachers of the Jewish religion and also teach laws they must carry out. Although you may still hear the word Temple, it is most likely referring to the ancient Temple which originates in Jerusalem. Some of the first synagogues date back to before 150 BC. Synagogues …show more content…
The sanctuaries outside of Jerusalem are generally made so they face or are on the same side as Jerusalem which can mean they 're keeping the homeland in mind. The “Ark” on the sanctuary is known as the most important part because it holds the scripts of the Torah, which are the first five books of the scriptures. The doors of the sanctuary are sometimes closed or opened during the course of the service. The person who opens or closes the doors is someone with great honor and high importance of the congregation. Standing during the opening of the Ark doors which holds the Torah is a ritual that people must follow. On top of the sanctuary and the Ark, there is also something called the Ner Tamid. The Ner Tamid is what sits atop the Torah and is a constant burning light to remind that god is always in the presence …show more content…
The first one being Purim which is known as the most fun holidays of the year coming in March. Then Pass Each which comes in April being a feast. Then the Tisha B’av in May which looks back at the destruction of the second temple. Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish new year and one of the biggest holidays in the religion highly celebrated in the synagogues. This is celebrated in September and then greeted by Yom Kippur in October not too long after. Yom Kippur is known as the most important day of the year for the Jews and the day of Atonement. The next big holiday is Hanukkah. Hanukkah is celebrated in december and is known as the festival of lights. Kosher meat is the only kind of meat that Jews can consume due to the blessings and process to prepare it. It is well known in many other religions as well that a blessing is crucial before being consumed which is very similar to the islamic