Jewish Worship and Synagogue Attendance

Query on Jewish Worship Practices

Email from Laura Schwartz: “Dear Rabbi Joshua, I’m trying to understand the religious practices of different faiths. I know that Christians go to church, but do Jews go to church as well?”

Response from Rabbi Joshua

Shalom Laura, it’s wonderful that you’re seeking to understand the practices of different religious traditions. To answer your question: Jews do not go to church. Instead, Jews attend services at a synagogue, also known as a shul or temple in some Jewish communities.

The Synagogue in Jewish Tradition

The synagogue is the Jewish place of worship and community gathering. It serves as the central hub for prayer, Torah reading, study, and communal activities. The term synagogue comes from the Greek “synagoge,” which means “assembly.”

Jewish Prayer Services

Jewish prayer services occur three times a day: morning (Shacharit), afternoon (Mincha), and evening (Ma’ariv or Arvit). On the Sabbath (Shabbat), which is observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening, and on Jewish festivals, there are additional and special services.

The Role of the Synagogue

While prayer can be done privately, communal prayer in the synagogue is a significant aspect of Jewish religious life. The synagogue also often functions as a place for educational and communal activities, serving a role similar to that of a community center.

Respect for Places of Worship

While Jews do not attend church for their own religious practices, there is respect for the sanctity of all places of worship, including churches, mosques, and others. Interfaith events may sometimes bring Jews to churches or members of other faiths to synagogues for dialogue and mutual understanding.

Conclusion

Laura, I hope this clarifies that Jews worship in synagogues, not churches. If you have any more questions about Jewish practices or wish to visit a synagogue to experience a service, feel free to reach out for guidance.

Best regards,

Rabbi Joshua

Question About Fish in a Jewish Diet

Email from Jessica Levine: “Dear Rabbi Joshua, I was reading about dietary restrictions in different religions and got curious about Judaism. Do Jews eat fish, and are there any specific rules about it?”

Response from Rabbi Joshua

Shalom Jessica, thank you for your question. Yes, fish is commonly eaten in the Jewish diet, but there are certain rules that apply according to Jewish dietary laws, known as Kashrut.

Kashrut and Fish

In order for fish to be considered kosher and fit for consumption by those who observe Kashrut, it must have fins and scales. This rule is based on directives found in the Torah, specifically Leviticus 11:9 and Deuteronomy 14:9. Therefore, fish like salmon, tuna, and trout are permissible, while shellfish, eels, and sharks are among those that are not kosher.

Separation of Meat and Fish

There are also rules about consuming fish with other foods. For example, fish should not be eaten with meat according to some interpretations of Jewish law. This is due to health concerns raised by the Talmud and later rabbinical authorities.

Fish in Jewish Traditions

Fish holds a significant place in various Jewish traditions and is often associated with prosperity and fertility. It is a traditional food on Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath, and is commonly served during festive meals such as the Passover Seder.

Contemporary Practices

In modern Jewish practice, whether one observes these dietary laws can vary widely. Some Jews strictly adhere to the laws of Kashrut, while others may adopt a more liberal approach or not observe these dietary restrictions at all.

Conclusion

Jessica, fish is indeed a part of the Jewish diet for those who observe dietary laws, with specific rules that govern its consumption. As with many aspects of Judaism, practices related to food can be rich in tradition and vary among different communities and individuals.

If you have any more questions about Kashrut or other Jewish practices, please feel free to reach out.

Best regards,

Rabbi Joshua