Extensive remodelling designed to draw on the spiritual maxims of the past and a few modern trimmings have restored a central synagogue to its former glory.
Two-and-a-half years of renovation have turned back the clock on the 150-year-old Great Synagogue of Sydney.
Reconsecrated on Tuesday evening in front of Governor-General Sam Mostyn, the space returns many key elements to their original location.
Celebrating the renewal of the sacred space for the city's Jewish community will also provide much-needed joy as they continue to grieve those lost in the Bondi Beach terror attack.
"We're still looking after the families of those who were affected and everyone is very preoccupied with that," Rabbi Benjamin Elton told AAP.
"But the only way you can sustain a community is through building positivity, growth and joy and this is going to be an occasion for joy and coming together."
The defining feature of the renovation is the relocation of the bimah, or reading desk, to the centre of the synagogue.
It was moved to the front in 1907, after its original construction in 1878, to more closely replicate the traditions of Christian churches, Rabbi Elton said.
The rabbi believes moving the bimah back to the centre will build a bigger connection between the service and the congregation, expected to number more than 700 on Tuesday.
The ark where Torah scrolls are kept has been restored, while the pulpit will return to its original position at the front of the synagogue.
Modern services should be more comfortable with the installation of air conditioning throughout the synagogue to replace the Victorian air circulation system that became less functional during previous works.
"I call this 'back to the future', because we are returning to what was originally but this is much more appropriate for a contemporary congregation," Rabbi Elton said.
A rededication prayer on Tuesday evening will be read by the Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of Commonwealth, Ephraim Mirvis.
The ceremony will include a blessing of the NSW judiciary for the start of law term for 2026, an annual event at the synagogue, and will be attended by NSW Chief Justice Andrew Bell.
