The rich symbolism of Temple Israel

November 17, 2012 in Question of the Week, Spotlight Answers, Which Memphis-area house of worship do you find most beautiful, spiritual, sacred? by Steve Montgomery

Which Memphis-area house of worship do you find most beautiful, spiritual, sacred? And why?

Because I can not vote for the sanctuary of the church I serve (you gotta come see it!), I have found Temple Israel’s sanctuary to be absolutely stunning in both its aesthetic beauty but also its rich biblical symbolism. The entrance is warm and inviting, which provides a peaceful transition from the secular to the sacred. As you enter the sanctuary ark the bronze doors evoke the Burning Bush. The sanctuary is created in the shape of a half-circle, which serves as a metaphor for the congregation’s relationship to the community, reminding all that God’s commandments are only complete when they are carried out into the world, representing the other half of the circle.  When I enter, I want to take off my shoes, for this is holy ground!

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