What does “synagogue” mean?

A synagogue is where Jews pray. The term “synagogue” is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew beit knesset, which means “house of gathering.” It is also referred to as a shul, Yiddish for “school,” as Torah study also takes place there.

Read: The Synagogue (Shul)

When do people attend synagogue?

Jewish prayer takes place in the synagogue three times every day—morning, afternoon and evening—as well as on Shabbat and holidays.

Lifecycle events typically take place in the synagogue, including brit milah (circumcision), bar mitzvah and aufruf. And following the passing of a loved one, mourners attend to recite the Kaddish for the first 11 months.

Read: What to Expect at the Synagogue

What do synagogues look like?

Synagogues vary in dimension, reflecting the culture, needs, means, and tastes of the communities that build and use them. Generally, the chairs or pews face the direction of Jerusalem, the site of the Holy Temple. The front of the sanctuary contains the aron kodesh or “holy ark,” which holds the sacred Torah scrolls.

Additionally, the synagogue typically has a bimah, a raised platform from which the Torah is read, as well as an amud, a lectern for the prayer leader.

Read: What’s In a Synagogue?

What is inside the aron kodesh?

The aron kodesh (holy ark) contains Torah scrolls, which are handwritten in Hebrew on parchment. Each scroll contains the Five Books of Moses. The Torah scrolls are stored in the ark and are only taken out during services or special occasions.

Read: The Holy Ark: Aron Hakodesh

What is synagogue etiquette?

Synagogue etiquette includes showing respect, refraining from running or shouting, men wearing a head covering (also known as kippah), avoiding idle talk and gossip, refraining from eating, reading newspapers, or using cell phones, and maintaining cleanliness.

Read: Synagogue Etiquette

How are men and women seated during prayers?

In Jewish tradition, men and women sit separately during prayers. Older synagogues may have a women's gallery above the sanctuary, while others are side by side with a mechitzah, a partition, separating the seating areas.

Read: Separation in the Synagogue

Who are the key figures in a synagogue?

The synagogue rabbi serves as the spiritual guide of the congregation and often delivers sermons. The rabbi's wife, known as the rebbetzin, also plays a leadership role. Prayers are usually led by a member of the congregation, although some synagogues have a designated cantor. The gabbai, often translated as “warden,” helps with organizing and running the synagogue.

Read: What is the role and function of the synagogue rabbi?

What is a Minyan?

A minyan refers to a quorum of 10 Jewish males over the age of 13. In order to conduct public prayer services, such as reading from the Torah or reciting certain blessings, a minyan is needed.

Read: Minyan: The Prayer Quorum

What is the primary book used in synagogues?

A siddur, “prayer book” contains the complete text of the prayers for weekdays, Shabbat, and festivals. Many synagogues, including most Chabad centers, provide siddurim with English translation and clear instructions, allowing even newcomers to feel comfortable participating in the prayers.

Read: The Prayer Book

What else are synagogues used for?

In addition to being a place of worship, synagogues, especially Chabad centers, serve as vibrant hubs of Jewish life. Upon entering, one may encounter a rabbi delivering an engaging Torah class, families celebrating a brit milah (circumcision) or bar mitzvah, or groups of people socializing. Many synagogues also host afternoon and Sunday Hebrew schools for children, providing educational opportunities alongside the religious services.

How can I get more familiar with the synagogue?

The best way to become acquainted with a synagogue is by visiting. Synagogue communities are welcoming, and both the congregants and the rabbis are friendly. If you’re shy, tell the rabbi or a congregant that it’s your first time and they’ll be sure to guide you.

Read: Chabad-Locator