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Inside the Synagogue: What do you need to know?

The House of Prayer

There are over 400 synagogues in the UK and they come in all sorts of different shapes and sizes.

They range from small - just a room in a house - to large imposing buildings. In all of them, you'll have a sense that people really participate in services and that the place is special. But they are not considered holy in the same way churches are.

The word "synagogue" comes from the Greek word for gathering together, and it can be a meeting place, a house of learning, and a house of prayer, so how people behave depends on what's happening there. You might see little children running around while people are being very solemn during the services. People should feel at home there as well as being respectful.

INTERACTIVE: Understanding the synagogue

There is no set blueprint for the synagogue. Each feature has a special religious significance. Click or tap on the image below to find out more.

Learn more about this topic:

Why is religion everywhere? Psychologists, anthropologists and even neuroscientists have come up with a number of theories about our predisposition to believe.

Are we wired to believe in a higher power?

An animated A to Z guide for pupils aged 11-14 that explores and introduces a variety of religious topics.

A-Z of Religion and Beliefs

A series of short films exploring the Jewish faith through the eyes of young practicing Jews, Charlie (11), Me-Me (13) and Solly (10).

My Life, My Religion: Judaism