Parochet (Ark Curtain)

Parochet (Paroches)

Parochet (also paroches, parokhet) is the curtain on the front of the Aron Kodesh (Torah Ark) in a synagogue that covers the Torah scrolls. In most cases, behind the parochet is also a door.
This Parochet represents the covering that was on the original Ark of the Covenant.
It is customary in many synagogues to change the parochet to a different set (normally white) during the High Holy Days.
The term parochet is used in the Bible to describe the curtain that separated the Holy of Holies form the main hall of the Temple at Jerusalem and its use in synagogues is a reference to the centrality of the Temple to Jewish worship:
"You shall make a veil of blue and purple and scarlet material and fine twisted linen; it shall be made with cherubim, the work of a skillful workman.
"You shall hang it on four pillars of acacia overlaid with gold, their hooks also being of gold, on four sockets of silver.
"You shall hang up the veil under the clasps, and shall bring in the ark of the testimony there within the veil; and the veil shall serve for you as a partition between the holy place and the holy of holies."
(Exodus 26:31-33)
The parochet, while not being a sacred object in itself, is used to protect and visually adorn the most sacred space of all – the Aron Kodesh itself. For this reason the Parochet is usually made of thick velvet with a rich and regal embroidery, the topic of which may be an excerpt or quotation of the Book.
We at www.kaftorvaferach.com believe that the Parochet should be a visual counterpart to the spiritual splendor which is the Torah. The embroidery on the velvet, whether regular or hand made, is invariably of the highest quality, making our Parochets an aesthetic treat worthy of the Book. Different designs both customized and existing, modern or traditional are available. All of our Parochets are made in Jerusalem by various gifted artists with exquisite taste.
The Parochets we offer are a gem of distinct taste, a visual counterpart to the spiritual splendor which is the Torah, a cover worthy of the Book. Feast your eyes and impress your congregation with our quality Parochets. We would be happy to accommodate you with a variety of ready designs for the embroidery, or let you customize your own design. In either case we are certain the Parochet of your choice will enrich the service greatly.