The role of the gabbai (literally “collector”; plural: gabbaim) has been evolving throughout Jewish history originating in Roman-era Judea. Today it refers in Ashkenazic communities to a ritual coordinator. In Sephardic communities, a gabbai may also be responsible for reminding congregants of their tzedakah commitments and collecting the funds.
At Beth El, a dedicated corps of individuals volunteer as gabbaim. Three are usually present for each Shabbat and holiday.
The first gabbai, who has recruited and organized the prayer leaders for that day, also stands at the bimah during the Torah service to call up individuals or couples and to pronounce a blessing (just before the scrolls are lifted) on everyone who has participated. The second gabbai, who also stands at the bimah, closely follows along with each Torah reader and softly corrects pronounciation errors. The third gabbai, who is usually stationed just outside the sanctuary but at times interacts with people who have already entered, offers aliyot to congregants and visitors.
People who wish to have an aliyah for a special occasion or milestone in the life cycle are welcome to make requests in advance by emailing aliyot@betheldurham.org.
For more information, ask questions about the gabbaim, or discuss a particular aliyah, please contact Bernie Fischer, Beth El’s gabbai coordinator: bernie.fischer@duke.edu.
