The Significance of Reading Order from the Torah Scroll in Synagogues: A Historical and Cultural Exploration
Traditionally, the order of reading from the Torah scroll during religious services in synagogues is a deeply rooted and meaningful practice. This article explores the significance and historical context of this custom, particularly focusing on the current practices and their evolution.
Current Practices in Synagogue Services
Currently, most synagogues have a designated reader who takes the Torah scroll during services. Various individuals are called up for 'aliyot,' which involves making special blessings before the reading. These blessings, such as 'Blessed are You, God, who chose us from all the nations and gave us the Torah,' and 'Blessed are You, God, who gave us a true Torah and put eternal life in our midst,' are recited before and after the reading.
Historically, these individuals would also read from the scroll, but due to the complexity and language barrier, this is less common today. Despite this, the order in which individuals are called up for 'aliyot' carries significant importance.
The Order of Aliyot: Kohen, Levi, and Israelite
The order of individuals called up for 'aliyot' is traditionally Kohen (priest), Levi (assistant priest), and Israelite (layperson). The number of individuals called up varies based on the day of the week. On regular weekday services, such as Monday and Thursday, there are at least four 'aliyot.' On Shabbat and holidays, there are at least seven 'aliyot.'
The first two 'aliyot' are always reserved for a Cohen followed by a Levi. If there is no Cohen present, the second 'aliyah' is for a Levi. If neither a Cohen nor a Levi is present, the call for 'aliyah' continues to other members of the congregation. The sixth and seventh 'aliyot' on Shabbat are considered the most honorable, typically reserved for important personalities, visitors, or those with significant life events such as recent marriage or the birth of a child, preferably a male infant.
This order reflects a deep-seated respect for the historical roles of the Cohen and Levi in the Jewish community, as these roles were directly related to the religious and ceremonial duties of the community. However, modern interpretations of these customs have led to changes in practice, making the selection of readers based on knowledge and community status rather than just their historical roles.
Selected Readings on Specific Days
According to Hallacha, the Torah is generally read on Monday, Thursday, Shabbat, and various holidays. The number of readings varies; a minimum of four readings are required on a regular weekday, and seven are required on Shabbat. These readings are carefully selected to cover key passages from the Torah.
The rules state that the first two readings should always be given to a Cohen and, if no Cohen is available, to a Levi. If neither is available, the call for readings continues until a suitable individual is found. On Shabbat, the sixth and seventh readings are often reserved for significant community members or visitors, especially rabbis.
A Extended Synagogue Tradition: The 'Auction' of Aliyot
One particularly unique and historical tradition in certain synagogues involves the 'auction' of 'aliyot.' During a quieter period between two Shabbat services, individuals might bid for the honor of having an 'aliyah.' This practice is seen as a form of community engagement and financial support for the synagogue, with a special blessing recited for the winner of the bid.
However, this tradition is not without controversy. A personal anecdote from a respected individual was shared during a service in 1942 in Alexandria. My late father, a devout and respected member of the congregation, never participated in such an auction. He felt that such a practice was inappropriate on Shabbat and considered the intervening period between services unsuitable for such ventures.
My father was a peaceful person and did not publicly express his views on this tradition. He simply refrained from bidding for a reading. His soul rests in peace, Amen.