Aliyah L'Torah

The Torah is read on Shabbat, Festivals, Rosh Hodesh and Monday and Thursday. Each reading is divided into a number of sections, and each section is preceded and concluded with a blessing. We call each section an Aliyah (ascent), since a different person ascends to the Torah to recite the blessings. Click here to see the blessings before and after reading the Torah. See the table to see the number of Aliyot (plural of Aliyah) for each day that the Torah is read. Note that the first two Aliyot are traditionally given to a Cohen and Levi respectively.

Find here a form to fill in with the names of the ones you wish to honor with an Aliyah.

 

Aron HaKodesh (Holy Ark)

This is where the Torah Scrolls are kept. It is the focal point of every synagogue and is traditionally located on the wall facing Jerusalem. The "Parochet" or ark curtain is placed inside or outside the doors of the Aron HaKodesh, depending on custom. It is considered an act of respect to remain standing while the Aron HaKodesh is open. Opening the Aron HaKodesh is referred to as "P'tiha" ("P'ticha") and considered an honor.