Structural+Symbolism+of+an+Orthodox+Jew+Temple


 * Structural Symbolism of an Orthodox Jew Temple**

There are many different symbols in an orthodox Jew church that hold great meaning, but there is also one central belief about the structure of the temple that holds true for all levels of Judaism. That is, that the temples not poses any kind of painting or statue inside the place of worship, the main sanctuary. This is derived from one of the Ten Commandments that says “you shall not make for yourself an idol.” Because of this, no “false” representations of heaven are present in a Jewish temple. Un-like Eastern Orthodox Christians, who believe their idols and ornate paintings further inspire and teach them, the Jews are afraid of praying to another god, therefore disobeying the Ten Commandments and feeling the reign of god.

The Holy Ark is the most holy and special possessions of an Orthodox Jew Temple. Within this ark, which is in reality a cupboard, rest the holy scrolls: the torah scrolls. The holy ark, historically, held the stones carved with the ten commandments. The Holy Ark is meant to symbolize God’s presence amongst his people. It is an everyday reminder to Jews that god is with them always. The Torahs within the ark are replicas of the word of God. They are usually decorated to show the peoples desire to honor the torah.
 * Holy Ark:**

The Bimah is a raised platform from with the torah is read and the service is lead. The Bimah is traditionally built in the center of the Temple. Although many conservative and reform Jewish temples have moved the Bimah for space constraints, Orthodox communities are against its moving.
 * Bimah:**

“The bimah is build in the center of the Synagouge so that the congregants may ascend to read the torah, and so those delivering the sermon may be heard by all.” –Maimonides

A menorah is usually present in all Orthodox Jew temples. The menorah is the main symbol of faith in the Jewish tradition. It symbolizes the people’s faith towards God and his power.
 * Menorah:**

New Tamid, or the eternal light, is a decorative light of some sort that hangs over the Holy Ark in an Orthodox Jew Temple. The eternal light represents God’s eternal presence is both community and life. For this purpose, the eternal light is never turned off, it is always glowing, as is God.
 * Ner Tamid:**