CCAR RESPONSA
Naming a Synagogue after a Donor
5751.1
She’elah
What Jewish precedents are there regarding the naming of a synagogue after an individual, and especially when the name is bestowed not because of the person’s piety or contribution to the Jewish community but because of a monetary gift. (Name withheld, to prevent identification of donor.)
Teshuvah
Enclosed herewith please find a responsum by the late Dr. Solomon B. Freehof,1 which deals with your question and, in effect, warns against naming a synagogue after a donor.
We would add the following: While it is quite customary to name parts of synagogue buildings (like the library or youth wing or social activities hall) after an individual, it is done sometimes because of the service the person has rendered to the congregation, and sometimes in consequence of significant donations. But we would find it inappropriate to name the whole synagogue complex after someone in exchange for a monetary gift, and would strongly discourage such practice.
The fact that this was occasionally done in the past should not be a determining factor, for circumstances may not be the same today as they were then. A synagogue is a place for prayer, devotion, piety and and if it should ever bear the name of an individual, it should be to exalt his or her spiritual qualities and be a sign of gratitude for them.
We cannot judge the legal status of your congregation’s decision. That is a matter which you will have to determine on the local level.
Notes
New Reform Responsa (1980), # 1.
If needed, please consult Abbreviations used in CCAR Responsa.