The jewish symbols panel

Abstract

This chapter surveys and discusses the symbolic and narrative panel theme: The Jewish symbols panel, situated in front of the Torah shrine. Reading the Torah has been the most important duty in the synagogue from ancient times until the present day, and a major factor in the life of the Jews. It has become a symbol of survival and preservation for Judaism throughout the ages, and is a major constituent of the Jewish spirit. On several synagogue mosaic floors the prominent panel is that portraying the Jewish ritual objects. The Jews could remember and celebrate the national, communal, and agricultural activities of the festival. Synagogue mosaics that show these objects have a twofold function: to show their actual use and to suggest their symbolic connotations. Some scholars argue that the Torah shrine designs discussed here as depictions of the synagogue Torah shrine and ark are representations of the Jerusalem Temple.Keywords:Jerusalem Temple; Judaism; ritual objects; synagogue; The Jewish symbols panel; Torah shrine