Select, describe and explain the essential features to be found in an orthodox synagogue.

The Torah Scrolls (Sefer Torah) contained inside the Ark are the most holy object within the synagogue. The word Torah means 'instruction' and along the Torah the five books of Moses are written, in Hebrew, in vertical columns along their 60-metre length. The scrolls are made from parchment- animal skins stitched together to form a long continuous writing surface. The ends of the scroll are attached to wooden poles called etz chaim (tree of life). In the Ark the scrolls are often kept covered or bound in silk or velvet. Sometimes they are kept in wooden cases decorated with silk and silver ornaments.

Gods presence within the synagogue is symbolised by the Ner Tamid - the everlasting light, positioned above the Ark is never extinguished, this helps the Jews to feel God at all times and also shows respect for the holiness of the Torah scrolls. It represents the Menorah the oil light of the tabernacle. Many modern synagogues use an electric light but a few still have the traditional oil lamp. Placed near to this above the Ark, plaques made of stone or bronze are engraved with the first two words of each of the Ten Commandments, and represent the Ten Commandments issued to Moses on Mount Sinai.

The raised platform, from which the Torah is read, is situated almost in the centre of the Synagogue is called the Bimah. At the foot of the Bimah is a group of seats reserved for elders of the synagogue. The Pulpit, at the front or side of the Bimah, is used by speakers to stand and give their sermons, and the Bimah itself is used for marriage ceremonies etc.

Any pictures of people or sculpted images are strictly forbidden within the synagogue as they could be viewed as idols. The only exceptions to this are that some synagogues display the Star of David (Magen David), a menorah and two lions that represent the tribe of Judah from which the Messiah is expected to come.

In accordance with tradition, in Orthodox synagogues you will also find a separate section where the women sit. This may be on an upper floor balcony, in the back of the room, or on the side of the room, separated from the men's section by a wall or curtain (mechitzah). In some Orthodox circles men and women do not study together, dance together or touch non-family-members of the opposite sex. Men are not permitted to pray in the presence of women, because they are supposed to have their minds on their prayers and not be distracted by women. Whereas in reform synagogues men and women sit, study and worship together.