Federation orders synagogues to close 'until further notice'

“This is necessary to ensure that every member of our kehilla [community] is afforded the maximum protection,” the rabbis stated.

“This takes precedence over all other mitzvos. The most fundamental obligation upon all of us t his moment is to be stringent in the  halachos of pikuach nefesh [saving life] and not to allow for the slightest possibility of endangering others with a life-threatening situation.”

Following government and medical advice was a religious obligation, they emphasised.

There has been controversy within the Union of Orthodox Hebrew Congregations over its decision to restrict attendance at  synagogue rather than that shut shuls altogether.