Judaism Practices Flashcards
What is the Synagogue?
It is the building where Jews meet for Worship, Social activity, Study and charitable events. It’s also where Jews celebrate festivals and rites of passage.
What is the Menorah?
A many branched candlestick.
What do Orthodox Jews call the synagogue?
The “Shul”, which means school.
What do Reform Jews call the synagogue?
The “Temple”, in reference to the temple of Jerusalem.
How do Jews use the Synagogue for worship and prayer?
The Synagogue allows Jews to pray in the presence of the Minyan - a group of at least 10 adults.
How do Jews use the Synagogue for education?
They provide Hebrew classes for young Jews, to help them learn the language used in Jewish prayer.
Most Synagogues have a Library with scriptures which allows Jews to have a deeper understanding of their religion.
How do Jews use the Synagogue for Social activities?
Youth clubs, drama and music clubs are held at the Synagogue.
How do Jews use the Synagogue for charity?
They organise fundraisers for charity.
They collect money and food that can be given to those in need.
What is the Ark?
It’s an ornamental cabinet where the Torah scrolls are kept.
Situated at the front of the Synagogue, in front of the wall facing Jerusalem.
2 stone tablets are placed above the ark, they read the beginnings of the ten commandments.
What is the Ner Tamid?
A light that’s placed in front and slightly above the Ark.
Symbolises God’s presence so it’s never put out.
Reminder of the menorah that was lit every night in the Jewish temple.
What’s the Bimah?
A raised platform located in the centre of the prayer hall.
Where the Torah is read from at each service.
Reminder to some Jews of the Altar, which was a central feature of the Temple of Jerusalem.
Provides a focal point when Torah is being read.
Orthodox Jews beliefs:
Important to strictly follow laws in the Torah.
Torah was given directly to Moses by God, so it should be followed closely.
Men and Women should have different roles.
Reform Jews beliefs:
Individual choice on how to worship and practice faith.
Torah was inspired by God but written by humans so it can be adapted to fit modern life.
Men and women can partake in the same roles.
Orthodox services:
Synagogues hold daily services.
The service is in Hebrew.
The person leading the service has his back to the congregation, so he is facing the ark and Jerusalem.
Reform services:
Don’t hold daily services. Focus is on celebrating Shabbat and festivals.
Service is in country’s own language.
Person leading the service faces the congregation most of the time.
