What is the meaning of Hechal in the name "Hechal Ha-sefer"?
Question #124014. Asked by flem-ish.
raffucci
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raffucci 16 year member
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Answer has 2 votes.
The Torah ark or ark in a synagogue (Jewish house of worship) is known in Hebrew as the Aron Kodesh by the Ashkenazim and as the Hekhál amongst most Sefardim. It is generally a receptacle, or ornamental closet, which contains each synagogue's Torah scrolls (Sifrei Torah in Hebrew). In most cases, when possible, the ark is located on the wall of the synagogue closest to Jerusalem.