The new synagogue of Berlin reached new heights of beauty externally, but exemplifies the idea that one cannot please everyone. Some loved it’s “Moorish” architectural styling, specifically the emperor of the time. However, many Orthodox Jews of the time outright rejected it’s soaring cathedral aesthetics indoors. They went on to build their own synagogue elsewhere. The issues of aesthetics arose once again when it was extensively damaged during the war. So, another decision point became necessary…restore it to its former glory or tear it down? It sat damaged for many years until a compromise was reached…restore the domes, but not all of the interior or exterior spaces were restored to pre-war grandeur. All of this is besides the point really because the most important part is that there is now a community center available and rooms to worship and conduct services once again. So, it symbolizes the idea that the Jewish people will endure and continue to do what is most vital…come together as a community to support one another, endure, and survive no matter the aesthetics of the building that shelters them. The strength remains in the people’s hearts, actions, prayers and community.
A haiku…
Golden accents live
Jews survive, grow strong in faith.
War. Shoah. Live on.
