Synagogue Service.

Question 1

Definition/ description

Answer 1

• Public worship is more important than private worship.
• Prayer is a link to God and community.
• Minyan needed for prayers to count.
• Services = 3x on Sabbaths, each festivals and service on Monday and Thursday.
• Service structured around key prayers e.g Shema, Kaddish and Torah.

Question 2

Why is it important?

Answer 2

• God answers prayers of a community so public worship is more important.
• Fulfils commandments and the covenant with Abraham.
• Shows devotion as more effort is made to go to the synagogue.

Question 3

Symbolism of elements/ actions

Answer 3

• Entering synagogue with head covering shows respect to God.
• Seen as a spiritual activity for each individual in a Holy place.
• Amidah prayer read without sound that shows speaking to God through the heart.

Question 4

Contrasts.

Answer 4

• Orthodox = cantor leads service through singing prayers.
• Reform = do not do that.
• Orthodox = only men can lead service.
• Reform = women can too.
• Orthodox = men and women sit separately for less distraction.
• Reform = they do sit together.

Question 5

Teachings.

Answer 5

• God asks, “Did anyone ever enter a synagogue and not find my presence there?”
• suggests that God is always there.