Bar & Bat Mitzvah

Bar/Bat Mitzvah

The coming of age ceremony in the Jewish tradition is an exciting and meaningful event. Until the age of 13 for boys and 12 for girls, children are not considered bound by the commandments as laid out in the torah, at least not to the same level as adults are. The age of 13 in Judaism is when boys are expected to use tefillin and pay extra attention to the mitzvot that concern them the most. The same goes for girls, that after 12 they have certain mitzvot they are responsible for being extra careful about. This is the age when children are considered to be self-aware enough to know their responsibilities in the Jewish religion and with the Jewish people. That is where the name is derived from which literally means son of/daughter of the mitzvah. It is also a very fun time because of the celebration of taking on this responsibility.

Invitations

The invitations to the celebrations are the first important step. Generally, invitations are sent to all the family and social circles. There is a strong emphasis on community in Judaism and the more people the more festive the party can be. Some important information should be included in the invitations. The Hebrew name of the bar/bat mitzvah should be included as well as the names of the parents. The location and time of the events should also be included with the name of the torah portion on which their birthday falls

Gifts

Gifts for the bar/Bat mitzvah are also important for the guest to remember. Emphasis should be placed on Judaica and especially Judaica relevant the mitzvot. Since boys start wearing tefillin, bags to hold the tefillin or protective cases are a nice idea. Kiddush cups, siddurim, among other things are also good since boys are starting to use or participate in activities like these. For girls a siddur is also a great idea, along with Shabbat candle stick holders. For both genders tzedakah boxes are wonderful because the importance of giving back to those in need but also because how beautiful they can be.

Centerpieces

The centerpiece at a celebration can a very memorable object. Tables for the celebration can be organized in such a way where families sit together, groups of friends or any other way. On each table is the centerpiece that ads significant flare and fashion to each table. Centerpieces can be any collection of colors, and sometimes contain candles, stones, pictures or nearly anything. Flowers are a most popular selection whether live or fake flowers.

Holiness of the day

The décor of the celebration should only add to the sense of holiness for the new adult. Pride and accomplishment are feelings which they feel along with their parents. When a son receives his first Aliyia to the torah the father says a special blessing signifying the transition of maturity and responsibility. The focus is on the bar/bat mitzvah and their decision to follow in the footsteps of their ancestors before them and following the ways of the torah.