Where is the yad kept in a synagogue?

The Aron Hakodesh, often known as the ark, is the most important place inside all synagogues. The Aron Hakodesh is where the Torah scroll is kept. The ark is usually wooden and has the features of a cupboard, and will often have a curtain or door.

What are the important features of a synagogue?

A typical synagogue contains an ark (where the scrolls of the Law are kept), an “eternal light” burning before the ark, two candelabra, pews, and a raised platform (bimah), from which scriptural passages are read and from which, often, services are conducted.

Why would someone use a yad?

The yad is used optionally in liturgical services to indicate the place that is being read on a Torah (biblical) scroll, thus eliminating the necessity of touching the sacred manuscript with the hand. …

What does the synagogue represent?

The synagogue is the Jewish place of worship, but is also used as a place to study, and often as a community centre as well. Orthodox Jews often use the Yiddish word shul (pronounced shool) to refer to their synagogue. In the USA, synagogues are often called temples.

What does Yad stand for in Jewish culture?

A yad (Hebrew: יד‎, literally “hand”; Yiddish: האַנט‎) is a Jewish ritual pointer, popularly known as a Torah pointer, used by the reader to follow the text during the Torah reading from the parchment Torah scrolls.

How is the Yad used in liturgical services?

The yad is used optionally in liturgical services to indicate the place that is being read on a Torah (biblical) scroll, thus eliminating the necessity of touching the sacred manuscript with the hand. Many yadayim are prized as works of art. Learn More in these related Britannica articles:

Why do you put a Yad on a Torah scroll?

Pointing with a yad on an open Torah scroll. A yad resting on an open Torah scroll. Beyond its practical usage in pointing out letters, the yad ensures that the parchment is not touched during the reading. There are several reasons for this: handling the parchment renders one ritually impure and the often-fragile parchment is easily damaged.

Why is the synagogue important to the Jewish faith?

Worship of God is central to the Jewish faith. Many Jews place great importance on prayer and on worship in the synagogue. A synagogue is a place of Jewish worship, gathering and education about the Jewish faith.