A Historical Analysis of the Role of the Ancient Synagogue, and its Implication for the Contemporary Church

Keywords: Ancient Synagogue, Treasury, Place of refuge, Communal worship, Place of manumission, Charity

Abstract

In this article, the importance, origin and function of the synagogue are surveyed using a historical analysis. Studies have shown that the origin of the synagogue is shrouded in mystery and may never be fully known. However, the synagogue was clearly a well-known institution in both Palestine and the Diaspora in the 1st century and the intertestamental period. The importance and function of the ancient synagogue are surveyed and classified into social and religious functions. The article argues that these functions have important implication for the Nigerian Church, since the church is understood to have taken over some of the activities of the synagogue.

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Author Biography

Dogara Turrang Silas, Stellenbosch University
Department Old and New Testament, Research fellow
Published
2024-11-28
Section
Articles