The Historical and Religious Significance of Synagogues in the Bible
Understanding the origins and usage of the word synagogue in religious texts, particularly within the Bible, provides a crucial perspective on the daily life and practices of ancient Jews. In the Greek translation of the Bible, known as the Septuagint, terms such as ek·kle·sia (meaning "assembly" or "congregation") and syna·go·ge (a bringing together) are often interchanged. Eventually, synagogue came to signify the place or building where these assemblies were held.
However, it is important to note that the original meaning of synagogue did not entirely disappear. The so-called Great Synagogue, a group of scholarly leaders credited with establishing the Hebrew Scriptures as the canon for Palestinian Jews, was not a large building but an assembly. This body is said to have been formed in the era of Ezra or Nehemiah, lasting until the Great Sanhedrin around the 3rd century B.C.E. (Jas 2:2).
Religious Gatherings and Satan's Influence
In the book of Revelation, the term synagogue is used to describe religious gatherings under the sway of Satan (Rev 2:9; 3:9). Additionally, the phrase synagogue of the Freedmen (Ac 6:9) suggests a gathering of Jewish freedmen.
When Synagogues Were Instituted
While the precise timing of the establishment of synagogues is unknown, it is believed to have begun during the 70-year Babylonian exile, when the Temple was not in use. It is also possible that synagogues emerged shortly after the return from exile, driven by the strong emphasis on the knowledge of the Law by figures like Ezra the priest.
The Role of Synagogues in Jesus' Time
During Jesus Christ's earthly ministry, synagogues played a significant role. Each town in Palestine had its own synagogue, with larger cities boasting multiple buildings. For instance, Jerusalem had numerous synagogues, and there are instances where synagogues were built by Roman army officers, as seen in the case of Legionary Synagogue (Luke 7:2, Luke 7:5, Luke 7:9).
Historical Synagogue Architecture
Made searchable and accessible by archaeological excavations, one of the most impressive synagogue ruins discovered is at Tell Hum, likely the site of ancient Capernaum. This building featured two stories and was constructed on the site of an earlier synagogue dating back to the first century C.E. (24.2 m × 79.4 ft long and 18.5 m × 60.7 ft wide).
A significant feature of ancient synagogues was the repository for Scripture rolls. Initially, scrolls were stored outside the main building or in a separate room for safety. Later, portable ark chests were used during worship. In later synagogues, the ark became an architectural element itself, built into or onto one of the walls. Seating arrangements allowed for the presiding officers and distinguished guests to sit near the ark, and the audience—possibly including separate seating for women—faced seating around the three sides of the synagogue. The building's orientation was considered important, with an effort to have worshippers face towards Jerusalem (compare Dan 6:10).