Torah pointer is a decorated rod used in a synagogue to indicate the text of the torah that is to be read in the day's service. It usually has at the head the representation of a hand with a pointing index finger. The 'pointer' is an element often included in Torah decoration. It is called 'yad', the Hebrew word for 'hand'.
The pointer usually hangs on a chain from the Torah staves. Because everything connected with the Torah is particularly sacred, it is considered disrespectful to touch the text when reading the passages. This is not only for reasons of respect but also because the constant touching with the finger would eventually soil the Torah and require it to be reinscribed. When not in use, the yad is hung next to the Torah shield and over the mantle.
