Mazel Tov! In a blink of an eye your babygirl is becoming a Bat Mitzvah! You celebrated so many milestones since she was born. Her birth, the first time she rolled over, stood and walked. Her first smile, giggle and words. Every year there is something to celebrate, maybe even every month. In fact, I try to remember to say a gratitude (Modah-Ani) every morning and include my kids, since everyday they are in our lives is a blessing. But for a Jewish parent, there is one special birthday that our girls celebrate that has an extra flavor of pride. Whether you celebrate her Bat Mitzvah at 12 or 13, it is a big deal.
Becoming a Bat Mitzvah, or "daughter of the commandments," signifies that a young woman has attained legal adulthood under Jewish law. A Bat Mitzvah is based on the centuries-old ritual of Bar Mitzvah, or "son of the commandments," the ceremony for 13-year-old boys. Today, it typically involves months of study, chanting Torah in front of the congregation and giving a reflection on the week's reading.
What is the history of a Bat Mitzvah?
Judith Kaplan, daughter of the influential rabbi Mordechai Kaplan, became the first woman to publicly celebrate the traditional Jewish coming-of-age ceremony on March 18, 1922.
Since that day in 1922, coming-of-age ceremonies for Jewish girls have gradually become more popular, especially in more liberal branches of Judaism. Lisa Fishbayn Joffe, a cultural historian writes in details about the subject here The Bat Mitzvah: A Celebration of Jewish Women's Empowerment
What to Say to Your Daughter on her Bat Mitzvah?
On June 15, 2019, a momentous occasion unfolded in my lives: my daughter's bat mitzvah coincided with my own 50th birthday, creating a beautiful confluence of celebrations. The day was infused with an extra layer of significance, as I experienced both milestones simultaneously. Every moment was a treasure to me. Yet, one unexpected pleasure stood out: expressing my profound love and admiration for Rona aloud. It felt both intimate and communal, as if we were enveloped in our own world while others looked on, sharing in our bond.
I understand that writing a sincere and meaningful speech to express one's feelings for a child in a public setting isn't something most people enjoy. But if you think about it, it should not be so hard to tell your daughter how special she is in front of your close family and friends.
- Start by telling your daughter how proud you are.
- Tell her and the congregation some of the personality traits about her that you most admire.
- Share one or two short stories that illustrate your child’s wonderful qualities. Stories are what make these blessings great and memorable.
- Finish with a sincere pronouncement of love and admiration.
Should I hire a Bay Area Bat Mitzvah Photographer?
That would be the ideal way to capture this once in a lifetime day. The images will be a wonderful way to share the story and traditions of your family with future generations.
I would love to capture this meaningful milestone for you. Here is a link to my Bnai Mitzva portfolio. If you are looking for tips about how to plan an amazing Bar/Bat Mitzvah Event, read my blog .
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