Ark Curtain
A curtain covers the Torah ark in many synagogues. Jewish teaching relates this furnishing to the Temple’s inner sanctuary curtain.
Key points
- The curtain marks respect for the Torah scrolls.
- Look for: A hanging textile before the scroll cabinet.
- Illustrated location: Torah Ark & Prayer Front
- The Old Testament does not provide a synagogue blueprint. This selective model illustrates later Jewish furnishings for study, not a reconstruction of an Old Testament building or a complete plan of any congregation. The central bimah and separate front amud reflect one Ashkenazi arrangement; Sephardic and other communities differ. The ark curtain and eternal light also vary by custom. A separate vestibule, full Torah library, and the mechitzah used in Orthodox Jewish congregations are not illustrated. Dimensions, stonework, columns, seating, and decorative profiles are schematic.