Religion
On the ground floor of the Great Synagogue a new exhibition
focuses on Jewish religion and tradition. Visitors are soon aware
of the remarkable nature of the place in which they find themselves
and experience the synagogue's atmosphere. Superb ceremonial
objects are shown in locations where they used to be placed in the
synagogue; the furnishings emulate synagogue furniture, like the
bimah - the central podium from which the Torah scroll is read in
synagogue. Three-dimensional computer reconstructions of the
building in different periods, historical film clips and audio
recordings bring the synagogue to life. Many new films reflect the
enormous diversity of contemporary Jewish life.
Various films feature key events in Jewish life, as well as annual
Jewish festivals and Shabbat. Presenting Jewish ceremonies in
contemporary Dutch settings, they complement the central themes of
the exhibition. Dutch Jews talk about their religious experiences.
Other film clips capture the atmosphere of Jewish life in the
Netherlands before the war, accompanied by interviews about
personal memories of the period. The films are shown on screens in
the desks around the bimah; these are where the synagogue seats
once stood. On the bimah itself, the focus is on the Torah and the
synagogue service.
The combination of objects, texts, images,
quotes and audiovisual effects conveys the enormous wealth,
diversity and contemporary character of the Jewish religion and
tradition. The underlying theme of the exhibition is the Jewish
vision of tikun olam, the perfecting of the world and the sanctity
of life. Everything we do counts. It is important to take time to
reflect about this, both in a personal context and at various times
with the community at large. This is a universal message: it is
something that every visitor can draw on, whatever their background
or religion.
An audiotour provides additional information on the
exhibition.
