How to Behave in an Orthodox Synagogue
If you are a man, sit among only the other men in the men's section., Find a prayer book and open it., Ask a fellow congregant if you do not know which page or area of the prayer book is being read., Wear formal, modest clothes., If you're a man...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: If you are a man
Likewise, a woman should sit among only the women in the women's section. -
Step 2: sit among only the other men in the men's section.
Some Orthodox synagogues may only have prayer books written in Hebrew, but most have at least a few sets of prayer books supplemented with English, too.
If you don't understand the Hebrew words, feel free to say them in English or simply hum along in tune with the congregation. , Many Orthodox synagogues have signs that are manually updated by someone with the current page numbers, or there will be someone designated to call them out at the beginning of each new section. , You don't need to look too dressy, but business or business-casual attire is the norm on Shabbat and High Holidays.
If visiting on a weekday, you can generally get by with casual clothes as long as they are appropriate. , If you don't own or bring one there will likely be some available at the synagogue to borrow. , -
Step 3: Find a prayer book and open it.
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Step 4: Ask a fellow congregant if you do not know which page or area of the prayer book is being read.
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Step 5: Wear formal
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Step 6: modest clothes.
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Step 7: If you're a man
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Step 8: wear a kippah (skullcap).
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Step 9: Treat the synagogue and others with respect.
Detailed Guide
Likewise, a woman should sit among only the women in the women's section.
Some Orthodox synagogues may only have prayer books written in Hebrew, but most have at least a few sets of prayer books supplemented with English, too.
If you don't understand the Hebrew words, feel free to say them in English or simply hum along in tune with the congregation. , Many Orthodox synagogues have signs that are manually updated by someone with the current page numbers, or there will be someone designated to call them out at the beginning of each new section. , You don't need to look too dressy, but business or business-casual attire is the norm on Shabbat and High Holidays.
If visiting on a weekday, you can generally get by with casual clothes as long as they are appropriate. , If you don't own or bring one there will likely be some available at the synagogue to borrow. ,
About the Author
Ruth Cole
Committed to making cooking accessible and understandable for everyone.
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