Synagogue

Torah readings, aliyot, synagogue objects, Kohanim/Leviim/Yisraelim, mechitzah and service conduct.

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Official questions

1. On which days is the Torah read?

Your study note: Monday and Thursday at Shacharit; Shabbat at Shacharit and Mincha.

2. How many Aliyot are awarded on Shabbat?

Your study note: Seven aliyot plus Maftir, eight calls/readings total in the note.

3. For what occasion is a person honoured with an aliyah? List 3 examples.

Your study note: Bar Mitzvah, Yahrzeit, and a chatan before his wedding (aufruf).

4. Give the Hebrew term for: Holy Ark; curtain; raised Torah-reading platform; lifting Torah; rolling/binding Torah; Rabbi; Cantor; Shamash; Gabbai.

Your study note: Aron HaKodesh; Parochet; Bimah; Hagbah; Gelilah; Rav; Chazzan; Shamash cares for physical synagogue needs; Gabbai organizes aliyot and helps run service.

5. People are divided into three groups for prayer services. What are their names?

Your study note: Kohanim, Leviim, Yisraelim.

6. Why is there a separation between men and women?

Your study note: To avoid distraction and support proper kavannah during prayer.

7. a) What were the tasks of Levites in Temple times?
b) What are their tasks today?

Your study note: Temple: guarded gates, sang/played instruments, assisted Kohanim. Today: note mentions washing Kohanim’s hands before priestly blessing on festivals.

9. From which mitzvah are Levites and Kohanim exempt?

Your study note: Pidyon Haben.

10. How is reverence for God demonstrated in the service? List 2 examples.

Your study note: Do not talk during service; dress modestly.

11. Can one enter a non-Orthodox sanctuary? Why?

Your study note: The note says not to enter in a way showing support for its religious service and not to daven there. Follow rabbi guidance for real family-event/funeral situations.

12. What is a Mechitzah?

Your study note: Curtain/wall separating men’s and women’s sections in an Orthodox synagogue.

13. What is Ezrat Nashim?

Your study note: Women’s section of synagogue, such as behind a mechitzah, balcony or gallery.