Bimah in the middle, revisited

Hi,

As we have already seen, the Shulchan Aruch says that the bimah should be in the middle of the shul. According to the Rambam, this is to ensure that people in all parts of the shul will be able to hear the Torah read.

Others have suggested a second reason for centering the bimah – to mirror the mizbeiach in the Beit haMikdash. This would apply even in a smaller room, but the argument is less clear as a legal basis.

This practice should be followed wherever possible, and certain in a large room and wherever there is any concern for people's ability to hear the Torah read.

(Rav Moshe Feinstein, Igrot Moshe Orach Chaim 2:41-42)

Have a great day,
Mordechai