Why Temples Look the Way They Do

Daniel Hillel Freelander

From Reform Judaism, Fall 1994
Reprinted with permission.

Reform synagogue architecture in America has from the beginning followed artistic trends and architectural norms. Jewish immigrants from Central Europe, who erected their community's first and second synagogues between the 1840s and 1930s, sought to win the respect and admiration of their non-Jewish neighbors by integrating the best architectural forms of the day, emulating the classic designs of courthouses, city halls, and churches. Synagogue members took great civic pride in the classic architecture and understated elegance of their temple, which was usually located in the central part of town, near the business districts where members lived and worked.

These ``Stage One'' sanctuaries, usually rectangular in shape with high vaulted ceilings, were awe inspiring spaces. Heavy woods, stone, and stained glass contributed to excellent acoustics. The organ and choir were hidden in a loft behind the ark or in a rear balcony to keep the worshiper from being distracted by the choir members. A small central bimah and reading desk were adequate for the rabbi.

The sanctuary, which had an air of ``other worldliness,'' demanded decorum and respect. Reform Jews came to hear great art music and inspired preaching, to be transformed by the transcendent combination of art, music, word, and architecture that was the worship style of ``Stage One'' Reform Judaism. The liturgical responses and prayers were recited primarily by the clergy and choir, but whenever the congregants read a passage or sang a hymn, the acoustics created a powerful sense of community.

Minimal concern was devoted to social space or synagogue administration in ``Stage One'' congregations. Tiny offices for the rabbi and secretary were tucked away behind the bimah. A small vestry space and kitchen downstairs handled social events and meetings. A few small classrooms accommodated the students of the one-day-a-week Sunday School.

• ``Stage Two'' Architecture
• ``Stage One'' Suburbia
• ``Stage Three'' Architecture
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