Usually Torahs can be identified stylistically, and very occasionally they have inscriptions on the verso of the scroll.  They are usually identified by their accouterments.  They usually have an embroidered textile cover, silver plaque and/or crown, a yad (a pointer shaped like a hand), and some have hard cases.

Torahs are the most sacred objects of the Jewish religion.  They should be handled with great care and respect.  It is best to keep it in its cover, or wrap it in clean cloth (muslin is fine) if it doesn’t have its cover anymore.  Generally, it is disrespectful to touch the parchment with bare hands.  It is also possibly that the Torah is no longer kosher due to irreparable damage, and has been ‘retired’ to a genizah.  Most damaged Torah’s are buried (yes, like a person), but they can be stored indefinitely until burial [most Torah’s in museums fall into this category].  It is still an obligation to treat posul (damaged scrolls) Torahs with the utmost respect.

A Torah should certainly be in the possession of someone who will care for it.  Original families or communities are less critical to identify, as long as the new caretaker is using it and caring for it according to Jewish law and tradition.  In comparison, it would be like repatriating an object to a tribe rather than to a particular individual. It is always thrilling to identify original sponsors and communities, however.

Based on your location, I recommend contacting Rabbi Landa of Chabad of Fairfield.  He should be able to help assess whether it is damaged, provide proper dressing for it, and help you with identification or finding it a good home.  Let me know if you’d like his contact information, or have more questions about handling Torahs.

Regards,

Victoria

Victoria Book

Chief Conservator

Gilcrease Museum

918.596.2714

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