A Guide to Torah Pointers

The Torah pointer, while a ritual tool, is so much more than that. Dating back to the year 130, the Torah pointer represents reverence, precision, and tradition, and plays a meaningful role in the Jewish reading of the Torah.

The Yad: Tracing the History of the Torah Pointer

Torah pointers, also known as Yad or Yad Torah, are ritual pointers that are used when reading from the Torah. The Torah pointer’s history dates back to ancient times, used in the second temple, where the Torah was read out loud in synagogues. By the Middle Ages, the Yad became common in synagogues throughout Europe and the Middle East, often made of silver or other precious metals and decorated with intricate designs and inscriptions. While the Yad was traditionally made from wood, bones, and ivory, today people often use precious and high-value metals like gold and silver.

Following sacred text with a Torah pointer, or Yad, keeps tradition alive.

How to Use a Torah Pointer and Why It Matters

The main purpose of the Torah pointer is to keep you from touching the actual Torah. There are no harsh rules for using the Yad, as you follow the same protocol you would for a regular pointer. The Yad Torah works as a tool, pointing to what you’re reading at the time to enhance the kavanah (intent) of the prayer or blessing. The Torah pointer is primarily used by the person who is reading the Torah at that time, also known as the baal koreh. Make sure to be as delicate as possible when using the Yad on the Torah to prevent any form of damage to the Torah and pointer itself.

Our sterling silver Squirrel Torah Pointer blends Jewish folk tradition with hand-carved detail and historical charm.

Heirloom-Quality Torah Pointers by Forgotten Judaica

Our Torah pointers at Forgotten Judaica help keep the Jewish ritual of Torah reading alive. All Yads are made from sterling silver, symbolizing ethical innocence, sanctity, and tradition, while also staying durable. Our Torah pointers are handmade by artisans like Tamra Mottl, Rebecca Nightingale, and Richard Wessner. These artists offer a range of Yad Torah designs, from classic looks, Persian-inspired pieces, and Torah pointers that include bears, lions, squirrels, and crowns made from sterling silver. These are perfect gifts for thirteen-year-old children who are celebrating their Bar or Bat Mitzvah, or you can donate to local synagogues.

Each Torah pointer at Forgotten Judaica is a work of art, crafted with intricate and meaningful design details.

The Torah pointer is vital to Jewish culture and practice, and can be a wonderful addition to your home. If you are looking to explore more of our Torah pointers, speak with us at Forgotten Judaica today.