Bema

The bema — or bima — is an elevated platform. In ancient Athens, it was used as an orator's podium. In synagogues, it is also known as a bimah and is for Torah reading during services. In an Orthodox synagogue, a bema is the raised area around the aron kodesh, or the sanctuary. In antiquity it was made of stone, but in modern times it is usually a rectangular wooden platform approached by steps.