Godan verb with 'ru' ending, Intransitive verb
to sit (down); to have a seat; to be seated; to kneel (on the floor)
数人の学生がベンチに座り、昼食を食べていた。Some students were sitting on the bench and having lunch. to assume (a position); to take on (a duty); to occupy (a post)
Also written 坐る【すわる】