ABSTRACT
One of the most effective instruments for preserving the Jewish consciousness is public worship. To take part in that worship is a duty which the Jew owes to his Judaism. Something more even than personal devoutness is involved in the question. A common worship is doubtless a powerful help to individual prayer, and the heart that seeks after communion with God is assuredly aided in its quest by being one of a multitude all intent on the same aim. Every worshipper in the Synagogue in effect declares his loyalty to Judaism. He identifies himself with its creed ; he renews the ancient covenant between his people and the Almighty. Living in different countries and speaking diverse tongues, the Jews have by common consent retained their sacred language as the medium of public prayer. Hence, too, the many references to Israel in the Jewish liturgy. The service of the Synagogue contains comparatively few prayers referring to merely personal needs.
