Ark (synagogue)
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The Ark in a Jewish synagogue is known as the Aron Kodesh (or aron qodesh ארון קודש in Hebrew-- "Holy Ark or Closet"). It is generally a receptacle, or ornamental closet, which contains each synagogue's Torah scrolls (Sifrei Torah in Hebrew) built in all synagogues. In most cases, when possible, the aron kodesh is located on the wall of the synagogue closest to Jerusalem, considered the holiest spot in the world by Judaism.
The name is a reference to the aron ha-qodesh, the Hebrew name for the Ark of the Covenant which was stored in the Holy of Holies in the anceint Tabernacle and the Temple in Jerusalem.
See also
- Aron Kodesh (http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=1778&letter=A)