The term Bat Mitzvah means “daughter of the commandment.” It is the coming-of-age ceremony for a Jewish girl when she reaches the age of 12. From this point, she is considered an adult in the Jewish community and is responsible for observing the mitzvot (commandments).
What Happens at the Ceremony?
The way a Bat Mitzvah is celebrated can vary between different Jewish traditions.
In Reform and Liberal Judaism, the Bat Mitzvah is often very similar to a Bar Mitzvah. The girl may read a passage from the Torah in Hebrew during a synagogue service, lead prayers, and give a short talk (D’var Torah).
In Orthodox Judaism, the Bat Mitzvah may be celebrated differently, with a smaller ceremony or a special family and community event outside of the main synagogue service.
The girl may also wear a tallit (prayer shawl) for the first time in Reform or Liberal communities.
Family and Community Involvement
The Bat Mitzvah is often marked with a blessing from the rabbi and a speech from the girl herself. Like with a Bar Mitzvah, there may be a festive celebration with family and friends afterwards.
The ceremony recognises that the girl is now responsible for her own choices and actions, especially in how she lives according to Jewish law and tradition.
Significance of Bat Mitzvah
A Bat Mitzvah marks the moment when a girl becomes a religious adult in Judaism. She is now fully responsible for her relationship with God and for observing Jewish law.
In Reform and Liberal Judaism, she may also be counted in a minyan, the group needed for public prayer, showing full equality with men. In Orthodox Judaism, women do not join a minyan, but the Bat Mitzvah still represents her taking on religious maturity and moral responsibility.
No key terms found.
🔗 Related Resources:
No resources for Level: GCSE