Torah

Nature and Role of the Torah

The Torah (literally “teaching” or “law”) lies at the very heart of Judaism, representing both divine instruction and the covenantal bond between God and His people. It consists of the Five Books of Moses—Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy—and forms the first section of the Tenakh (Hebrew Bible). The Sefer Torah, or Torah scroll, is regarded as the holiest object within the synagogue because it contains the revealed word of God, given to Moses on Mount Sinai. Its sanctity derives not only from its content but also from its physical form and ritual use in worship.

The Sefer Torah and Public Worship

The Sefer Torah is housed in the Aron Kodesh (Holy Ark) in the synagogue, symbolising the Ark of the Covenant that once contained the tablets of the Ten Commandments in the Temple at Jerusalem. The scroll is written by hand on parchment by a trained sofer (scribe), following exacting rules. If even one letter is omitted or written incorrectly, the entire scroll may be rendered invalid. Because it contains the name of God, a Torah scroll can never be destroyed; when it becomes too worn to use, it is placed in a special container and buried respectfully in a Jewish cemetery, following the precedent set in Jeremiah 32:14 and Deuteronomy 12:4.

During synagogue worship, portions of the Torah are read aloud according to a set cycle: small sections on Mondays and Thursdays, with the main reading on Shabbat morning. The annual reading cycle ensures that the entire Torah is recited over the course of a year. When the Torah is carried around the synagogue, the congregation stands in reverence, touching their tallit (prayer shawl) to the mantle and kissing it as a sign of love and respect. The reader uses a yad (pointer) to follow the text, avoiding direct contact with the sacred parchment.

The scroll’s journey from the Aron Kodesh to the bimah (reading platform) represents God’s word being brought to the people, reinforcing the covenantal relationship at the centre of Jewish faith.

Study of the Torah

The study of Torah is both a religious duty and a lifelong pursuit. As stated in Deuteronomy 6:7, “You shall teach it to your children,” study is seen as essential to knowing and fulfilling the mitzvot (commandments) and to gaining deeper spiritual insight. Torah study takes place formally in yeshivot (religious schools) and seminaries, where students engage not only with the written Torah but also with rabbinic literature, including the Talmud and Halakhah, in order to apply divine law to every aspect of daily life.

For most observant Jews, a printed version of the Torah known as the Chumash is used at home for private study and preparation for synagogue services. Through study, Jews reaffirm their identity as God’s chosen people and their commitment to live according to divine instruction.

Written and Oral Torah

Orthodox Jews believe that Moses received both the Written Torah and the Oral Torah on Mount Sinai. The Written Torah contains the foundational laws and narratives, while the Oral Torah—eventually recorded in the Mishnah and Talmud—provides detailed interpretation and guidance on how to observe these laws. For example, while the Written Torah commands Jews to “honour the Sabbath,” it is the Oral Torah that specifies how this should be observed in practice.

This distinction between the two Torahs is crucial in understanding the ongoing process of halakhic interpretation, as rabbis continually apply ancient commandments to new circumstances.

Respect and Symbolism

Every aspect of the Torah’s treatment reflects its sanctity. The scroll is dressed in an ornate mantle, crowned with decorative finials, and often adorned with a breastplate and bells, recalling the vestments of the High Priest in the Temple. Its movement during the service is a moment of deep reverence, reminding Jews of God’s continued presence among His people.

The care and respect afforded to the Torah demonstrate its central place in Jewish spiritual life. It is both a sacred textand a living covenant, connecting each generation to the revelation at Sinai and to the enduring call to live in accordance with God’s will.

Summary

The Torah functions simultaneously as law, teaching, and symbol. It defines Jewish belief, governs ethical behaviour, and shapes communal worship. Its study sustains the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, while its physical presence in the synagogue anchors Jewish identity in the tangible experience of divine revelation. For both individuals and the community, engagement with the Torah is the ultimate expression of faith, obedience, and continuity.