A synagogue is a Jewish house of worship. Many Reform synagogues and some others are also called temples. The synagogue also serves as a community and education center. The main services each week are held on Friday night and Saturday morning, although many synagogues have services every morning and evening.
The religious leader and teacher of a congregation is called a rabbi. A rabbi usually speaks about the weekly Torah portion during the Sabbath services. Services are usually led by a cantor who leads the singing or chanting of prayers and reads from the Torah scroll. However, any member of the congregation who is familiar with the prayers and melodies may lead a service or read from the Torah.
In the center of the bimah (raised platform) at the front of the sanctuary is the aron kodesh (holy ark), holding the Torah scrolls. Each Torah is handwritten in Hebrew on parchment (animal skin). Above the aron is the ner tamid (the eternal light) representing the constant presence of God and reminding us of the menorah, the seven-branched candle holder that illuminated the Temple in Jerusalem. There is also a podium from which the rabbi speaks, and a table, at which the cantor sings and the Torah is read.
Look at the sketch on the right. Can you locate the following parts of the synagogue? Click on each numbered part of the sketch to check your answer and learn more.
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Click here to view photos of the sacred objects that were shown in class.
Wellesley Middle School
February 2006