Kohen called up first – Ask the Rabbi
Q. Why is a kohen called to the Torah first?
A. The kohen must, according to the Torah (Lev. 21:8) be “sanctified”, i.e. accorded special status because of the service he renders to God and the people of Israel.
In addition, the Talmud (Gittin 51a) insists that a congregation have its order of protocol and procedure in order to promote peace and harmony and to avoid jealousy and quarrels.
