 All synagogues contain a "Bimah", a large, raised, reader's platform (called (reading dais) by Sephardim), where the Torah scroll is placed to be read.In Sephardi synagogues it is also used as the prayer leader's reading desk.In Ashkenazi synagogues, the Torah was read on a reader's table located in the center of the room, while the leader of the prayer service, the hazzan, stood at his own lectern or table, facing the Ark.