What is a Bat Mitzvah?

 

Answer: Bat Mitzvah literally translates to "daughter of commandment" and implies "responsible female."

 

According to Jewish Law, every Jewish girl becomes a bat mitzvah at age 12 - a year earlier than a Jewish boy becomes a bar mitzvah due to the fact that girls mature earlier than boys. As a bat mitzvah, she becomes obligated by God's commandments - as prescribed in the Torah and as interpreted by Moses, the Prophets, the Sages and the Rabbis. A Jewish girl becomes a bat mitzvah automatically upon turning 12 years old. No ceremony is needed. The Reconstructionist Movement introduced the idea of celebrating a girl becoming a bat mitzvah in 1922. Since then, ceremonies to mark the occassion of a girl becoming a bat mitzvah have become more and more popular. While the bat mitzvah girl can celebrate from her 12th birthday, some wait and celebrate on the girl's 13th birthday. In many Reform, Reconstructionist and Conservative synagogues, the bat mitzvah may be celebrated by the girl blessing and/or reading Torah and also leading part of the prayer service. Festive meals and lavish parties in honor of a girl becoming a bat mitzvah have also become common in non-orthodox communities. In orthodox communities, the bat mitzvah is more often marked with a family celebration than a religious ritual. If an orthodox girl wants to celebrate her bat mitzvah by reading Torah or leading a prayer service, then this is generally done in the presence of women only.

 

The Invitation?!
Many people feel confused when invited to a bat mitzvah. They ask what present to buy, when to give the present, how to dress... It helps to think of the bat mitzvah as a special birthday - special in that it has religious significance. Any present that is appropriate for a 12 or 13 year old girl will also work for a bat mitzvah present (jewelry, books, gift certificates, music, clothes, picture frames, ....) Dress for the religious service like you are going to a religious service (modest, formal attire), and dress for the party according to whatever party is being held. It is best to bring the present to the party (rather than the religious ceremony). Mazel Tov or congratulations are appropriate greetings. You have been invited because the bat mitzvah girl wants you to join her in celebrating her "coming of age" - so, above all, enjoy the celebration!