Ark

The Ark (usually called Aron Hakodesh or Hekhál )is the most important feature of the interior, and is generally dignified by proper decoration and raised upon a suitable platform, reached by at least three steps, but often by more.

On the Ark of the Covenant is established the altar with the Cross of Christ;
Here Life wishes to die under a greater covenant.
Also in the same [window], where the Lion and the Lamb unseal the Book: ...

In French there are two words arche, one meaning a chest or coffer, from Latin area (arcere, to keep close), hence the English "ark"; the other meaning a vaulted arch, such as that of a bridge, and derived from a Low Latin corruption of arcus, ...

See also: Architecture, Church, Vault, Ground, Gothic