Magen Abraham Synagogue
| Magen Abraham Synagogue בית הכנסת מגן אברהם | |
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Street view of synagogue exterior | |
| Basic information | |
| Location |
 Ahmedabad |
| Affiliation | Orthodox Judaism |
| Rite | Sephardic |
| Province | Gujarat |
| District | Ahmedabad district |
| Year consecrated | 1934 |
| Status | Active |
| Website | MagenAbraham.20m.com |
Magen Abraham Synagogue is the only synagogue of Gujarat state situated in Ahmedabad, India. It was built in 1934 using donations from members of the Bene Israel Jewish community throughout Gujarat state. Members travel from great distances for the High Holy Days to here.
Architecture
The synagogue is built in the Art deco style with marble chequered floors and a large ark. The furniture consists of movable pews arranged around a central Bimah. The Ark contains multiple Torahs of many sizes and in hard cases. The women's balcony is unusual (as compared to other synagogues in India) in that it is not supported by pillars. The Synagogue is located within the old fort of Ahmedabad and stands across the street from a Parsee Fire Temple.
The only Jewish synagogue of the State of Gujarat, 81-year-old Magen Abraham Synagogue at Bukhara Mohulla in Khamasa in the Walled City, now has the state archaeological department's nod to be included in the city's heritage list. The list has been prepared by heritage and conservation committee and INTACH for the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC).[1]
Community
The Jewish community in Ahmedabad has shrunk considerably in the past few decades with many families emigrating to Israel, the United States and Europe. Members of the community have been prominent in the Educational field in Ahmedabad. Notable institutions include the Nelson's group of schools, the Best School and many others. The Nelson's group also includes an International school which follows the standards of the University of Cambridge International Examinations.
Culture
The synagogue has a small but still active community. The communal celebration of Pesah (Passover) still takes place and High Holy Days are observed annually.
References
External links
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