kehilah

Kehilah is a Hebrew word that translates to "community" or "congregation." It refers to a Jewish communal group, encompassing a broad range of organized Jewish life. Historically, the kehilah was the primary unit of Jewish social, religious, and political organization in a given locale. It often held significant autonomy, responsible for its own internal affairs, including religious observance, education, welfare, and sometimes even legal matters.

The concept of kehilah extends beyond just a physical gathering of people. It emphasizes shared responsibility, mutual support, and collective identity. Within a kehilah, members are expected to contribute to the well-being of the community, looking after the poor, the sick, and the elderly, and ensuring the continuity of Jewish tradition.

In modern times, the term kehilah is often used to describe a local synagogue or Jewish community center, as well as the broader network of Jewish institutions and individuals that constitute a Jewish community. It signifies the enduring importance of communal life in Jewish identity and practice, underscoring the principle that Jewish existence is deeply intertwined with the collective. Whether in ancient times or the present day, the kehilah represents the vital framework through which Jewish life is lived, sustained, and passed on.