A bima (Hebrew: בימה), also known as an alim (עלים) or tebah (תבה), is a raised platform or pulpit in a synagogue from which the Torah is read during religious services. The term bima is derived from the Greek word bēma, meaning "an elevated place or platform." In Sephardic and some Ashkenazic synagogues, the bima is often located in the center of the main prayer hall, while in others, it may be positioned near the ark containing the Torah scrolls. The bima serves as a focal point during services, particularly for the reading of the Torah and Haftarah, and is sometimes used for delivering sermons or leading prayers. In some traditions, the bima is also used for reading the megillah (scroll) during Purim and other festive occasions. The design and placement of the bima can vary significantly among different Jewish communities and synagogues, reflecting diverse architectural and liturgical customs. The term bima is also used in other contexts, such as in theater, where it refers to a stage or platform. In Russian, the equivalent term is bima (бима), and in Yiddish, it is bime (בימע).
