Aliyah to the Torah
 

This page is a guide to help anyone who is unsure how to enjoy with confidence an Aliyah to the Torah at Belsize Square Synagogue. Click on the example page to the right and a PDF printable A4 page will appear.

(1) Before the service you will be asked for your Hebrew name and you will be given a brass plate with your number. After being called, walk up to the bimah and stand to the right of the Torah scroll when facing the congregation.

(2) A brass plate to the right of the Torah scroll has the blessing inscribed in Hebrew but if you feel more comfortable, take a copy of the printed page with you.
The reader will point to the first word of your Torah portion. Take the tassels from a corner of your tallith, gently touch the margin next to the word that has been indicated, bring the tassels to touch your lips.

Click on the notes below to hear the first blessing. Read the first line. The congregation will respond with the second line. Repeat that line and read to the end of the first blessing.


 

(3) Hold the right hand handle of the scroll with your left hand while the Torah is read. Take the tassels from a corner of your tallith, gently touch the margin next to the word that has been indicated, bring the tassels to touch your lips.

(4) Read the second blessing.

(5) Move to the left hand side of the reader when facing the congregation, remain there while the following person has his Aliyah, and when he has finished, shake hands and return to your seat.

When the readings are completed the Torah scroll is lifted. The scrolls are bound and wrapped before the Haftorah is read.