Judaism Practices Flashcards
Synagogue
A building for Jewish pubic prayer, study and gathering
Minyan
A group of at least 10 adults; the minimum number of Jews required for a Jewish religious service.
Menorah
A many-branched candlestick that holds either seven or nine candles.
Star of David (Mayen David)
a symbol of Judaism said to represent the shield of King David, who ruled Israel in the 10th century.
Shul
What many Orthodox Jews often refer to their Synagogue as because it means school or place of study
Bimah
A platform in a synagogue from where the Torah is read
Aron Hakodesh (The Ark)
Cupboard that houses the Torah.
Beit K’nesset
Synagogue in Hebrew
Torah Scrolls
used in the ritual of Torah reading during Jewish prayers.
Chanukah
Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem
Ner tamid
An eternal burning light in the Synagogue to symbolise the presence pf God.
Cantor (Chazzan)
person who chants worship services in the synagogue
Tallit
A prayer shawl which has long tassels attached to each corner. Reminds Jews they should obey Gods word everyone
Tefillin
Small box containing extracts of the Torah, strapped to the persons arm or forehead. Reminds Jews to stay concentrated and that prayers should come from the heart.
Tzizit
A long tassel attached to each corner
Amidah
a prayer consisting of a varying number of blessings recited while the worshippers stand.
Shema
A very important prayer which teaches Jews that there is only one God, and you should love him with your mind, body and soul
Shabbat
Most important day of Jewish holy year. A day of multiple prayer services and blessings.
Kiddush
a ceremony of prayer and blessing over wine, performed by the head of a Jewish household at the meal ushering in the Sabbath (on a Friday night) or a holy day, or at the lunch preceding it.
Shabbat sevices
Two services are held one on Friday evening and Saturday morning. There are games, music etc, and recites kiddush blessing. Torahs are dressed. At the end speaker gives sermon and leaving says Shabbat Shalmon (Peaceful Shabbat)
Challah Bread
special bread in Jewish cuisine, usually braided and typically eaten on ceremonial occasions such as Sabbath and major Jewish holidays.
Mezuzah
A piece of decorative inscribed with specific Hebrew verses.
Tenakh
Are what the sacred Jewish Scriptures are known as. Consist of 24 books grouped into 3 main parts
Torah
Five books of Moses, form the basis of the Jewish law
