Maghen David Synagogue Kolkata, West Bangal, India

' Jewish Synagogue Special'




All These photographs are related to old times Jewish Maghen David  Synagogue located at 19, Synagogue Street, China Bazar, Barabazar Market, Kolkata, West Bangal, India. English Translation of Maghen David  Synagogue is Shield of David which
 Constructed on 11th September 1884 AD.


The foundation stone for this synagogue was laid down on 23rd of January 1883 and the construction was completed in September 1884 at a staggering cost of Rs. 2,00,000 all paid by Elias David Joseph Ezra. The land on which the synagogue was built partly belonged to the Neveh Shalom Synagogue and that on Elias Ezra’s step mother. The new synagogue was named after David Joseph Ezra the father of Elias Ezra.

The new synagogue was inaugurated on 11th of September 1884 and was considered an architectural masterpiece which even had electric chandeliers and the steeple had a clock which was imported from London.

SOME FEATURES OF The MAGHEN DAVID Synagogue Kolkata:-

* Outer walls built with red and grey bricks

* Pillars with floral designs on top (these sections were imported from Paris)

* Dome (Apse) at the main altar (Hekal) looks like a blue sky with starts resembling heaven

* Separate ladies gallery on the upper floor on both the sides
Electrified in 1921

* Steeple tower rises to a height of 43 meters

* Size of the synagogue is 24 meters by 43 43 meters

* Quarter chime clock with four faces on four sides on the steeple

* Raised Tebah/ Tevah at the centre of the floor


Historical Information Written  on the Commemorative Stones Erected at Maghen David Synagogue Reads As Below One by one :

1-

'Elias Hyam Musleah (1904-1985)  Pious devoted, loyal Hony. Secretary and treasurer of this Synagogue for almost two decades. Last of a family that was consultant and guide to each of the ministers having known well traditional liturgy.'

2-

'In the sacred memory of Rev. Albert Morris who for 20 years officiated as the Minister of this Synagogue and whose rendering of the services was deeply appreciated by his Congregation. His place will be difficultly to fill died 2nd August 1946.'

3-

'In Commemoration of the century Service of Maghen David Synagogue arranged and conducted by Rabbi Dr. Ezekiel. N. Musleah and attained by the local Jewish community and overseas visitors Rosh Hadesh Shebath 5745, January 23,1985.'

4-

' In Sacred memory of Benjamin Hye Nissim Elias a member of this Synagogue in appreciation of his services as Honorary Treasurer from 1911 and in addition from 1927. It's vice president till his death on October 10th 1943.'

5-

'In memory of Nissim Benjamin Elias for his unflagging devotion to the Maghen David Synagogue and Jewish community. Born 14th June 1898, Died 13th August 1965.'

6-

'In loving memory of Sonny Solomon Flying Officer (Navigator) Royal Air Force Born in Calcutta 23rd Sept 1919 killed in air operation over France 11th Sept 1944- 23 Elul 5704 buried by France Manquis at Alpinac Cemetery Epinacless - mines on 13th Sept 1944.'

7-

'This tablet Commemorates the celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the constitution of the Jewish community and the establishment of the first Synagogue in Calcutta which was solemnly held in this sacred building by special prayers on Saturday 15th of IYYAR 5691-  2nd May 1931.'

8-

'Patron of the Synagogue in recognition of their generous support for 1894 Appeal.
Elias Duke Cohen and Grace Grunberg
Elias Charitable Foundation
Flower Elias
Eric Michael Ezekiel Ezra
Esmond David Ezra
Jewish Girls School
High and Maurice Rassaby
The Rembaum Family
Charles and Esther Solomon
Moselle Solomon '

9-

'This tablet is a memorial to the late Rev. E. M. D. Cohen, for 43 years Senior Minister of the Maghen David Synagogue. Who devoted his life to the welfare of the Congregation. To the services of the community and to the advancement of the love and fear of God. And is Erected as a sign of lasting appreciation and esteem by the board of Manhichim of this Synago