Wikipedia
Kenesa
Kenesa is the term for a Karaite or Persian synagogue. The word derives from the Aramaic word for "assembly" (in Hebrew, the word for synagogue is beit knesset).
Modern Karaite kenesas are similar to Rabbinical synagogues. In Eastern Europe they are laid out along north-south axis ( Jerusalem direction). Starting from the northern entrance, kenesa contains:
- Vestibule (azar), where worshipers take off their shoes. Shoes are not permitted anywhere further.
- Moshav Zekenim (, old men's pews): wooden benches for the old and the mourners, usually under a low ceiling. The loft above this ceiling is reserved for the women, who remain invisible to the men on the main floor.
- Shulkhan ( "table"): the main hall. Traditional Karaite worship was performed on the knees. In the past, kenesa floors were carpeted; however, modern Karaite kenesas have pews in the main hall.
- Hekhal, or altar : raised stand for the ritual Ark and the priest.
Some Karaites kenesas also have a rood screen