Synagogue
/ˈsɪn.ə.ɡɒɡ/noun
A building where Jewish congregations gather for worship and community activities.
Did you know?The term 'synagogue' reflects the communal aspect of Jewish worship, emphasizing collective prayer and connection to the divine.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
συναγωγή (synagōgē)
“A gathering or assembly, particularly for worship.”
1st Century CE
Greek
συναγωγή (synagōgē)
“Specifically referred to the Jewish place of worship.”
Late Latin
Latin
synagoga
“Adopted term for the Jewish house of worship.”
Middle English
Old French
synagoge
“Borrowed from Latin, maintaining the meaning of a place for gathering.”
Modern English
English
synagogue
“The established term for a Jewish house of worship, emphasizing its community function.”
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