Torah Pointer

Torah pointers, also known as yads, are objects of devotion in Jewish tradition. They are designed to protect the sacred parchment from human contact and to preserve the text. According to Judaism the Torah is a sacred book that should not be touched by human hands. The Torah pointer also serves as a visual aid, to help the reader and the congregation follow the text during Jewish synagogue services. 

Torah pointers are often made of metal and adorned with intricate filigree designs. This Torah pointer was crafted from sterling silver and made using cast and hollow-formed silver techniques. The same silversmithing techniques are used in jewelry making. They involve melting silver and pouring it into molds to create solid or hollow shapes. Many Torah pointers, including this one, feature the three-dimensional figure of a humanlike hand in the gesture of pointing. The chain at the top of the pointer serves as an easy way to hang it on the Torah scroll when it is not in use. 

Torah Pointer once belonged to Temple Oheb Sholom in Goldsboro, which is the second-oldest synagogue in North Carolina. The pointer was donated to the synagogue by a member of its congregation, in memory of a loved one.