T4: Judaism Practices Flashcards
What is a synagogue?
building Jews meet for:
- worship
- study
- charity
- festivals
What is the minyan?
- Where certain prayers are said
- Group of at least 10 adults
What is the Ark (Aron Hakodesh)?
- Cabinet where Torah scrolls are kept
Where is the holiest place in the synagogue?
Ark (Aron Hakodesh)
What is ner tamid?
Ever-burning light
What does ner tamid symbolise?
God’s presence
What is the reading platform (bimah)?
Platform where Torah read
What is the Jewish name for reading platform?
Bimah
What are the principles of Orthodox Judaism?
- Emphasises Torah laws
- Believe men & women have different roles
- Follow dietary laws strictly
What are the principles of Reform Judaism?
- Individual choice in deciding how to worship & practice the faith
- Men and women should be able to undertake the same roles
- Think dietary laws are outdated
How often do Jews pray?
Three times a day
What are Orthodox services like?
- Daily service
- In Hebrew
- Men & women sit separately
What are reform services like?
- Synagogue doesn’t hold daily services
- Focus on celebrating Shabbat & festivals
- Men and women sit together
What do Orthodox wear when praying?
- Tallit
- Tefillin
What is a tallit?
Prayer shawl
What is the significance of Tallit?
- Obeys God’s word
- Represent mitzvot
What is Tefillin?
Small leather boxes containing extracts from the Torah
What do Jewish services consist of?
- Opening prayer
- Shema
- Amidah (series of blessings)
- Final prayers
What is Amidah?
Standing prayer
What is the central prayer?
Amidah
What is Shabbat?
- Rest day
- ‘Remember sabbath day and keep it holy’ Exodus 20:8
- a time to celebrate creation (Gen)
What is the Jewish holy day?
Shabbat
What do Shabbat services consist of?
- Friday evening service
- Saturday morning main service
What does the congregation do during Shabbat service?
Stand when Ark is opened
What is the significance of standing when the Ark is opened?
Jews standing at Sinai when Moses returned with 10 commandments
What happens to the Torah during Shabbat service?
- Taken from Ark
- Dressed with cover
What is the significance of the Torah cover during Shabbat service?
Reminder of vestments worn by priests
Where is the Torah held during Shabbat service?
- In front of congregation
- Chanted
- Paraded
What is the significance of holding the Torah during Shabbat service?
- Represents Jews carrying Ark from Sinai to Jerusalem
How is Shabbat prepared beforehand as a rest day?
- Cleaning house
- Preparing food
- Candles on table