synagogue crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "synagogue crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations to help you understand the context and nail your puzzle.
Solutions for "synagogue crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SHUL: An informal, Yiddish term for a Jewish synagogue or house of worship. This is a very common answer in crosswords, especially when a shorter word is needed.
6 Letters
TEMPLE: Often used by Reform Jewish congregations to refer to their house of worship. It can also refer to the ancient Temples in Jerusalem, making it a relevant crossword answer depending on the clue's nuance.
9 Letters
SANCTUARY: The main worship hall or holy space within a synagogue, where services are conducted. It's a more general term for a sacred place of worship that can apply to a synagogue.
More About "synagogue crossword clue"
A synagogue is a Jewish house of worship, study, and assembly. The term "synagogue" comes from the Greek word meaning "place of assembly." It serves as a central hub for Jewish communities worldwide, providing a space for prayer (Tefillah), Torah study (Talmud Torah), and social gatherings.
Unlike the ancient Temple in Jerusalem, which was the central place for sacrifices, synagogues are primarily places of prayer and communal worship. They emerged as essential institutions after the destruction of the First Temple and became even more vital after the destruction of the Second Temple, allowing Jewish life and religious practice to continue wherever communities existed.
Different Jewish movements might have slight variations in the design or terminology for their places of worship. For instance, Reform congregations often use the term "temple" while Orthodox and Conservative communities more frequently use "synagogue" or "shul" (a Yiddish term).
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Alternative Terms: For clues about religious buildings, think beyond the most obvious word. "Synagogue" might lead to "SHUL" (Yiddish) or "TEMPLE" (Reform Judaism), or even a generic "SANCTUARY."
- Check for Nuance in Clues: Some clues might hint at a specific branch of Judaism or a historical context. For example, a clue mentioning "ancient Jewish worship" might lead to a different answer than "modern Jewish prayer house."
- Analyze Letter Count Carefully: Always use the provided letter count as your primary filter. If you have "synagogue crossword clue" and 4 letters, "SHUL" becomes a very strong candidate.
- Think of Components or Roles: Sometimes the answer isn't the building itself, but a part of it (e.g., ARK, BIMAH) or a role within it (e.g., RABBI, CANTOR).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of a synagogue?
Synagogues primarily serve as houses of worship, study, and community gathering for Jewish people. They are central to Jewish religious and social life.
Are "synagogue" and "temple" the same thing in Judaism?
While often used interchangeably by some, particularly outside of Judaism, "temple" can specifically refer to the ancient Temples in Jerusalem. In modern Judaism, "temple" is a term frequently used by Reform congregations for their houses of worship, while "synagogue" is a broader term encompassing all Jewish houses of prayer, study, and assembly.
What are some common architectural features of a synagogue?
Common features of a synagogue include the Ark (Aron Kodesh), which houses the Torah scrolls; the Bimah, a raised platform from which the Torah is read; and the Ner Tamid (eternal light), which hangs above the Ark, symbolizing God's eternal presence.