Year 3 had a wonderful and eye-opening trip to Muswell Hill Synagogue this week! The children were full of curiosity and excitement as they stepped inside the synagogue and began their journey of discovery about Jewish faith and traditions.
There were many surprises along the way. Some children were amazed to find a mezuzah fixed to the doorpost, containing a special scroll with a prayer inside. Others were fascinated by the tallith — a traditional Jewish prayer shawl with four corners and special tassels, which we learned symbolise important teachings.
Our guide, Andrew, was full of fascinating information. He told us that there are 613 commandments in Judaism — far more than many of us expected! We also learned how Jewish people look for special symbols on food to check if it’s kosher, and that a ram’s horn is blown to mark the Jewish New Year, a sound the children found particularly entertaining.
Andrew explained that on the Day of Atonement, Jewish people fast to live like angels for a day, which led to some thoughtful conversations among the children. We also heard about the Talmud, a book full of discussions and interpretations about the Torah, and learned about Rabbinic Judaism, where people are encouraged to interpret the Torah and apply it in their own way.
To end the visit, the children had the special chance to try on a tallith and kippah for themselves. It was a memorable and respectful way to experience Jewish culture first-hand — a visit we won’t soon forget!
