synagogue

• What is the Jewish sacred place of worship?

  The synagogue
• A synagogue service usually begins with the lighting of candles and saying prayers.
• Prayers are normally said in Hebrew.
• Orthodox services are more informal and children often move around.
• Progressive services tend to be shorter but more formal.
• Main uses of the synagogue: worship, celebration, learning and relaxation.
• Mikveh - Esekiel 36:25


  "Then I will sprinkle pure water upon you, that you may become cleansed."
• What is a MIKVEH?

  A ritual bath of water in which people can bathe and be ritually pure.
• It is a mitzvot for women after their period to go to the mikveh to spiritually cleanse.
• (orthadox) minyan

  10 jewish men over the age of Bar Mitzvah.
• (progressive) minyan

  10 jewish men or women over the age of Bar Mitzvah.
• If a minyan is not present then the TORAH cannot be read from the scroll.
• Ark

  Where the TORAH is kept. It is a special case and a reminder of the Ark of the Covenant.
• Ner tamid


  An eternal light that is always lit. Shows that God is always present.
• When the Ark is opened everyone stands to show respect.
• The TORAHs inside the ark are dressed with large cloths and are dressed nicely. They are covered to protect them.
• Siddur


  The prayer book. The prayers are in English and Hebrew.
• Bimah

  The raised platform where the prayers are said from. The person who leads the service stands there and they usually face east to Jerusalem.
• Downstairs seats are reserved for men only in Orthodox Synagogues. Women sit in the galleries. This is to prevent distractions.