The mantle is utilized to dress the Torah covering the scrolls through the top of which protrude the two staves, called azei hayyim ("trees of life"), on which the scroll is rolled. Traditionally, the donor of the mantle inscribes his or her name thereon, or more often dedicates the inscription to a deceased relative. When the Torah is paraded through the congregation the congregants kiss the the mantle as a symbol of reverence and respect for the scrolls. The donor thus becomes an honored member of the community. As such these donations were generally reserved for the prominent members of the community.