The Edifice Complex: What Really Matters in a Synagogue

What makes a synagogue truly holy? Is it the grandeur of its architecture—or something much deeper? In this d’var Torah on Parashat Terumah, given at his son’s bar mitzvah, Rabbi David Baum reflects on sacred spaces, personal experiences from the March of the Living, and a surprising insight from his own children. As his son, born and raised at Congregation Shaarei Kodesh, reaches this milestone, Rabbi Baum shares how meaningful it is to celebrate in a warm and loving community. Drawing on the wisdom of Jewish tradition, he explores where God truly dwells—not just in buildings, but in our hearts. Listen to this podcast to discover what really makes a shul a spiritual home!  Click here to watch the video and read the transcript