Arguments for worship in the synagogue

Many Jews believe that worshipping in the synagogue is the ideal way to connect with God because it allows them to take part in communal worship, something highly valued in Judaism.

1) The presence of God

One key reason is the presence of a minyan—a group of ten adults required for certain important prayers, such as the Kaddish. The synagogue is the place where a minyan is most reliably found, and Jewish tradition teaches that when a community gathers in this way, the Shekhinah (the divine presence) rests among them. This makes synagogue worship feel spiritually deeper and more powerful that somewhere else.

2) Correct worship

Another argument in favour of synagogue worship is that it ensures prayers and rituals are performed correctly, respectfully, and in line with Jewish law. A synagogue provides a sacred environment designed to focus the mind on God: distractions are reduced, the Torah scrolls are housed with great care, and a trained rabbi or prayer leader can guide the service. This helps Jews feel confident that their worship follows tradition and honours God properly.

3) The synagogue as a place of learning

Synagogues serve as important centres of learning and community life. Many Jews use the synagogue for studying Torah, attending classes, and engaging in discussion. Hasidic communities in particular describe the synagogue as a shul (school), where learning itself is considered a form of worship. Being surrounded by others who share the same beliefs strengthens Jewish identity, encourages ongoing learning, and helps keep the faith alive across generations.

Arguments against worship only in the synagogue

1) Frequent prayer

Although the synagogue has an important role, many Jews believe that worship should not be limited to one place. Jews are expected to pray three times a day, and it is often impossible to attend the synagogue for each prayer. Work, school, travel, or simply the practicalities of everyday life mean that Jews must often pray at home, at work, or wherever they find themselves. This shows that daily worship cannot depend solely on synagogue attendance.

2) God is everywhere

Another key argument is that Judaism teaches the belief that God is everywhere, not only in a synagogue. Therefore, sincere prayer offered in any location can still reach God and be spiritually meaningful. Many Jews find private prayer comforting and personal, allowing them to express emotions and needs more openly than they might in a public service. (Note that this is not the idea of Shekhinah).

3) Shekhinah can be experienced outside the synagogue

Jewish tradition also emphasises that the Shekhinah can appear wherever people gather to study or discuss Torah, not just in a synagogue.

This saying from Pirkei Avot supports the idea that holiness is created through behaviour, not buildings.

4) Personal and informal worship is important

Lastly, informal or personal worship has always been part of Jewish practice. Some Hasidic Jews historically prayed, danced, and sang to God in forests or open spaces, showing that spiritual connection does not require a formal building. Today, Jewish people pray at home when they wake up and before they sleep, and young Jewish groups often pray at camps or gatherings where no synagogue is available. This demonstrates that Jewish worship can be powerful, meaningful, and valid outside the synagogue as well as inside it.