ABSTRACT
The early history of the Synagogue is obscure. In medieval times, when the Synagogue was as much a place of religious study as a house of prayer, and when, moreover, it offered the only refuge and relaxation, save that afforded him by his home, which the Jew could enjoy amid the troubles of life, the Piyutim were grateful and even precious additions to the Service. In accordance with ancient custom the Service of the Synagogue is conducted in Hebrew. Every synagogue contains two objects—The Ark, or shrine, in which the manuscript of the Law is deposited, and the Platform, from which the Law is read and the Service conducted. The general rule of Jewish public worship is that supplication should be offered standing, as is the practice in some Christian congregations. Instrumental music is, as a rule, not used in Synagogue. To play on a musical instrument is a violation of the Sabbatical Law as laid down by the Rabbins.
