Free Synagogue

synagogue, New York City, New York, United States

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 26, 2026

Quick Summary

The Free Synagogue was founded in New York City in 1907 by Rabbi Stephen Samuel Wise. Wise, a prominent Reform rabbi and Zionist leader, established the Free Synagogue after declining an offer to lead Temple Emanu-El due to concerns about pulpit free speech. The Free Synagogue became an influential institution, known for its liberal approach to Judaism and Wise's impactful sermons. Synagogues, originating from the Greek word for "to bring together," serve as Jewish houses of worship, assembly, and study. They have existed since at least the 3rd century BCE and became the primary center of Jewish religious life after the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

4 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

Stephen Samuel Wise
…and he founded the influential Free Synagogue (1907) instead, which he led until his death. Wise became a noted civic reformer in New York City politics in subsequent decades and was famous for his brilliant and timely sermons, which he preached to large audiences at Carnegie Hall for many years.
Read More
…and he founded the influential Free Synagogue (1907) instead, which he led until his death. Wise became a noted civic reformer in New York City politics in subsequent decades and was famous for his brilliant and timely sermons, which he preached to large audiences at Carnegie Hall for many years.
Read More