The Yeshiva is a religious college at which the complete rabbinical tradition, above all the Talmud, is taught. Hence it is also called a Talmudic College. It represents the pinnacle of Jewish education. It serves to preserve orthodox Jewish tradition and to train rabbis, judges of religious law, and teachers. The term Yeshiva signifies "chair" or "session" and probably refers to the thronelike chair from which the Head Teacher delivers his lectures and guides the discussion. In the middle ages Jewish students attended the famous Talmudic Colleges of Europe, often following their teachers to the various communities. Apart from a few brief intermissions, there was always a Yeshiva in Frankfurt which enjoyed a high reputation. Its Head was the Chief Rabbi. There were frequently also private colleges run by well known rabbis who attracted students from far and wide. The Frankfurt rabbi Nathan Salomon Maas was given the title "Head of the Yeshiva" by the Master Builders in recognition of his lifelong services to the Community.