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WHY DOES THE SANCTUARY IN A
Actually, it doesn't. We only face east when we live in the Western hemisphere. Whenever we as Jews pray, we face Israel. If we were to set up a synagogue in India, we would surely face west. In fact, amongst the orthodox, while saying the silent amidah, they turn slightly to south, as we, here in Canada are situated somewhat north of the Holy Land. So, if we always face Israel while praying, what do we do when we are in Israel? No problem. We simply face Jerusalem. The logic continues. What do we do when in Jerusalem? Those in Yerushalayim face the wall, the Western Wall, where the beit ha-mikdash, the Holy Temple once stood.
Copyright (c) 2001-2008 Rabbi Steven Schonblum
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