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Glite Dictionary
gabbai

gabbai

9.9
A person who takes care of a synagogue and organizes its services
  • noun
  • /ɡəˈbaɪ/
  • Jargon
translation icon : gabai
  • It will be right in the middle of maftir, and all the Hasidim are pushing close to 'hear' when the Rebbe whips out a shank and sticks it against the gabbai's throat.

Examples

  • The gabbai, the congregation's lay leader, calls one man to "rise up" to the Torah (aliyah) for each of the seven passages into which the reading is divided, plus one more for the reading from the Prophets.

    Academic text (2009)

  • The gabbai of the synagogue organizes the weekly services and ensures everything runs smoothly.

  • As the gabbai, he is responsible for managing the congregation's funds and making sure bills are paid.

  • During the service, the gabbai calls members to read from the Torah at designated times.

Synonyms

beadle
vsgabbai
  • UK
3 9.9

A minor official who helps at ceremonies and keeps order in a church or university

focuses on practical upkeep organizing services and managing funds rather than ceremonial duties

Surface Forms

gabbai singular
gabbais plural

Etymology

Gabbai comes from a Hebrew and Aramaic word that means 'collector' or 'treasurer'. That's why a gabbai in a synagogue manages money, organizes services, and cares for the building.