Magen Abraham Synagogue
| Magen Abraham Synagogue בית הכנסת מגן אברהם | |
|---|---|
 Street view of synagogue exterior | |
| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Orthodox Judaism |
| Rite | Sephardic |
| Year consecrated | 1934 |
| Status | Active |
| Location | |
| Location |  Ahmedabad, India |
| Website | |
| MagenAbraham.20m.com | |
The Magen Abraham Synagogue was built in Ahmedabad in 1934 using donations from members of the Bene Israel Jewish community through out the state of Gujarat. Magen Abraham is the only synagogue in the state and members travel from great distances for the High Holidays.
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.
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 holidays are observed annually.
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