Judaism - Practices Flashcards
What is a synagogue?
A building for jewish public prayer,study and gathering
What is a minyan?
A group of at least 10 adults:minimum number of jews required for a jewish religious service
What is a menorah?
A many branched candle that holds either seven or nine candles
What is the star of david?
A symbol of judaism said to represent the shield of king david , who ruled Israel in the 10th century
What is the bimah?
A platform in a synagogue from where the torah is read
What is the aron hakodesh?
The ark- the holiest part of the synagogue which contains the torah scrolls
What is the rabbi?
A jewish leader and teacher
What is the ner tamid?
Eternal light; a light that is kept burning in the synagogue above the ark
Who are orthodox jews?
Jews who emphasiee the importsncd of following the laws and guidance in the torah; they believe the torah was given directly by god to Moses , so should be followed as closely as possible
What is a reform jew?
Jews who believe the laws and guidance in the torah can be adapted for modern times ; they believe the torah was inspired by god but written by humans , so can be interpreted according to the times
What is a cantor?
A person who leader or chants prayers in a synagogue
What is the tallit?
A prayer shawl
What is the teffilfin?
A small leather box containing extracts from the torah , strapped to the wearers arm and forehead for morning prayers
What is the amidah?
Also known as the standing prayer , it is central prayer of jewish worhsip
What is shabbat?
Jewish holy day of the week ; a day of spiritual renewal starting shortly before the sunset on Friday an continuing to sunset on Saturday