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What synagogue privileges have traditionally been given to cohanim?
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Aaron
Aaron, detail of a 3rd-century fresco from the synagogue at Doura-Europus, Syria; in the National Museum, Damascus
In the context of the biblical figure Aaron, from whom cohanim trace their lineage, they are traditionally granted specific privileges within the synagogue:
- Torah Reading Priority: Cohanim are granted first preference when being called up for an aliyah (the honor of being called to the bimah to recite blessings over the Torah). If a cohen is present, he is traditionally called for the first reading, followed by a Levite, and then an Israelite.12
- Priestly Blessing: Cohanim perform the priestly blessing over the congregation during festivals.1
- Redemption of the Firstborn: They officiate at the ritual of pidyon haben, where a father redeems his firstborn son with an offering of silver coins.1
It is important to note that these traditional privileges are observed primarily in Orthodox and many Conservative congregations. These practices are generally disregarded by Reform Judaism, which has largely abandoned the formal order of aliyah.12