A synagogue (Greek sunagōgē, meaning “gathering place”) was a local Jewish meeting place. After the exile to Babylon, Jewish people began to meet in synagogues in their towns. These places became centers for teaching and worship. After Israel returned from exile in Babylon, Jews began using synagogues for instruction and worship.
In the synagogue, people read from the Law and the Prophets. Leaders explained the meaning of the Scriptures. The people also prayed and gave praise and thanks to God (see 13:15; 15:21; Nehemiah 9:5; Matthew 6:5; Luke 4:16–21). Jesus attended, taught, preached, and performed miracles in synagogues (Matthew 12:9–10; Mark 1:21, 39; Luke 4:16; 13:10–13; John 6:59; 18:20). His apostles did as well (see Acts 9:20; 13:5, 14; 14:1; 17:1, 10, 17; 18:4, 19, 26).
Damascus: Damascus, the capital of Syria, was an important center with a long history. It was the nearest major city outside of Palestine. It took four to six days to travel from Jerusalem to Damascus. This emphasizes Saul’s determination (9:1–5; see 22:4–8; 26:9–15).
the Way: The term the Way in the book of Acts refers to Christianity (see 19:9, 23; 24:14, 22). It is “the way of God” that teaches people “the way of salvation” (18:26; 16:17). See also John 14:6; 2 Peter 2:2.