Parochet

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Parochet (also paroches, parokhet) is the curtain on the front of the Aron Kodesh in a synagogue that covers the Sifrei Torah (Torah scrolls). In most cases, behind the parochet is also a door.

This curtain 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

Several of the prohibited Shabbos activities derive from the manufacture and repair of the original parochet.

The parochet used in the Temple were made from wool and linen, and were exempt from the laws of Shatnez.