What is an Alter Called in a Synagogue?
In a synagogue, the central feature that serves as the focal point for prayer and worship is known as the “Bima” or “Aron Kodesh.” The term “Bima” is derived from the Hebrew word “bima,” which means “platform” or “dais.” It is the elevated platform where the Torah is read and other religious rituals are performed. The “Aron Kodesh,” on the other hand, refers to the ark that houses the Torah scrolls.
The Bima is typically located at the front of the synagogue, and it is adorned with various religious symbols and decorations. It is often draped with a tallit (prayer shawl) and a tallit katan (prayer shawl for the head), and it may also feature a mezuzah (a small box containing a parchment with biblical verses) on its side. The Bima is considered a sacred space, and it is where the congregation gathers to participate in the religious services.
The Aron Kodesh, which is part of the Bima, is a wooden cabinet or ark that contains the Torah scrolls. It is usually adorned with intricate carvings and is often decorated with biblical verses and symbols. The Aron Kodesh is a symbol of the covenant between God and the Jewish people, and it is considered one of the most sacred objects in the synagogue.
The Bima and the Aron Kodesh play a crucial role in the religious life of the Jewish community. The Torah scrolls are read from the Aron Kodesh during the weekly Shabbat services and on other Jewish holidays. The congregation gathers around the Bima to listen to the readings, recite prayers, and participate in the religious rituals.
In addition to its religious significance, the Bima also serves as a place for other important ceremonies and events within the synagogue community. Weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, and other lifecycle events are often celebrated at the Bima, where the congregation comes together to mark these significant milestones.
In summary, the Bima and the Aron Kodesh are the central features of a synagogue, representing the sacred space where prayer, worship, and community gatherings take place. The Bima is called by various names, such as “Bima” or “Aron Kodesh,” but it remains a vital and revered part of the Jewish worship experience.
