Guide
The Synagogue
By Carol Bakhos
Related Primary Sources
Primary Source
Description of the Synagogue in Alexandria
It was stated: R. Judah said: Anybody who did not see the double stoa of Alexandria did not ever see the glory of Israel. It was like a large basilica with a stoa inside a stoa. Sometimes there were…
Primary Source
The Synagogue as Repository of Books and Funds
But if anyone is discovered stealing their sacred books, or their sacred money, whether it be from the synagogue or banquet hall, he shall be deemed a sacrilegious person, and his property shall be…
Primary Source
The Synagogue as Travelers’ Inn
The dilemma was raised before [the sages: In the case of] two partitions [that] have a roof over them, what is [the halakhah? Is this structure also treated like a…
Primary Source
Water Facilities at the Synagogue
“[ . . . ] We have further decreed that those who are willing among the Jews, both men and women, may observe their sabbaths and perform their sacred rites in keeping with Jewish law; and they may…
Primary Source
Torah Scholars at the Synagogue
[And for a spirit of justice to him that sits in judgment and for strength to them that turn back the battle to the gate (Isaiah 28:6).] And for a spirit of justice: This [is referring to] one who…
Primary Source
The Relative Sanctity of the Synagogue and the Study Hall
And R. Pappi said in the name of Rava: [To convert a building] from a synagogue into a study hall [is] permitted, [but] from a study hall into a synagogue [is…