Whether the design is intricate, unadorned, or top secret, Pinchas Lachiani knows how to turn even the humblest shul into a magnificent structure of sanctity
MAGNIFICENT EDIFICE Beis Knesses Yagdil Torah Ohr Yehuda: “When mispallelim enter the shul they’ll feel like they’ve stepped into the most magnificent place in the world.” (Photos: P360)
Once upon a time shuls were works of art: Soaring vaulted ceilings marble pillars intricate woodwork lavish textiles and an aron kodesh that could find its place in a museum exhibition.
Over the years things changed. Building became more expensive Jewish populations dispersed and the grand old shuls of yesteryear were replaced with far more modest structures.
But about 30 years ago the grandeur of the shuls of old began to reappear. Perhaps it was a matter of material wealth. Perhaps it was the confidence of Jewish communities. Whatever the case in Israeland the United States shuls that could stand for centuries were once again being built.
Pinchas Lachiani is a carpenter by trade but he’s so much more than that. He’s the leading shul furniture maker in Israel perhaps in the world. Thirty years ago when he bought a carpentry shop and renovated his first shul he felt he had found his calling.
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