Roles of the Synagogue Essay - 1349 Words

Roles of the Synagogue The synagogue is a place for the Jewish people to worship God, or more particularly, where Jewish people can hear the Torah being read and pray to God. As well as functioning as a House of Prayer, or Beit ha Tefilah, the synagogue is also known as House of Assembly, Beit ha Knesset and House of Study, Beit ha Midrash. On three things the world stands, says the Mishnah, On the study of the Torah, on worship and on deeds of kindness. This quote reflects the functions of the synagogue distinctly. The study of the Torah is the reason the name House of Study is given to the synagogue. The Torah is guidance to how Jews live; it is the fundamental basis of†¦show more content†¦These activities help young Jews meet each other at an early age. Many activities organised are religious as well as social, such as Childrens services, Sunday morning Minyanaires, Bar Mitzvahs, Cheder and Childrens parties. These activities teach the younger generation about Judaism as well as emphasising the importance of socialising with others. There are also groups for women in the Northwood Orthodox Synagogue such as The Ladies Guild, which is a social group that organises outings and holds many responsibilities within the synagogue. In the Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue, there are many social events organised. The cultural activities include photography and embroidery. There are also sporting events organised as well as bereavement visitors, to help those in need of a sympathetic ear. There are not many social activities organised to teach Judaism, like the Orthodox synagogue, but many activities are organised to bring the community together. Being part of the Jewish community in a synagogue and taking part in the events organised reinforces a Jews sense of identity. The synagogue is also known as House of Study. Beit ha Midrash. In Judaism it is very important to learn about faith. This is also so that the religion can continue. Studying the Torah is a mitzvah. InShow MoreRelatedThe Ancient Synagogue : The First Thousand Years957 Words   |  4 Pagesstable sanctuary for prayer, community activities, and intellectual stimulation. This sanctuary is often named the Synagogue but takes on many other names such as the shul and the temple. Through the Synagogue the Jewish people have been able to continue to develop their culture, community affairs, and provide a safe intellectual home for all friends and followers of Judaism. Synagogues became predominant after the demise of the great Temple in Jerusalem around 70 AD They became prominent in manyRead MoreThe Destruction Of The Temple Essay1388 Words   |  6 PagesTestament. Torah reading was performed by the leaders and was viewed as a way to act in the image of God. As for those times they failed to act according to the Law, the Torah provided the means for atoning through animal sacrifice. 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