Prayers Before and After Torah

  1. If given an Aliyah for reading the prayers before and after Torah reading, it is customary to read the prayers from the right side. 
  2. Before saying the prayer the reader will indicate where he or she is beginnig to read from.  Touch the spot indicated with your tzitzis (knotted theads) if you are wearing a Tallis and kiss the fringes, or corner of prayer book and kiss the prayer book.
  3. While the reader is reading, hold the Torah's  wood handle  nearest you, while reading the text of the torah. 
  4. After reading the "after" prayer (and kissing/shaking hands with  everyone in sight) move to the left side of the podium. This shows your reluctance to leave the Torah.  Again while the reader reads, hold the Torah's  wood handle  nearest you.
Click on the prayers below to get the audio




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Lifting the Torah

  1. Open the Torah slightly so some of the text can be seen (Traditionally 3 columns, but this might be difficult for you to lift)
  2. Slide the Torah about1/4 way down
  3. Use the edge of the lectern as a fulcrum as you rotate the Torah vertical
  4. Lift the Torah straight up
  5. Turn so the congregation can see the Torah, hold while the congregation completes singing V’zot ha’Torah, then turn and sit.
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