Bar Mitzvah

בר מצוה

 

A Bar Mitzvah is a significant milestone in Jewish life, marking the age when a Jewish boy reaches religious maturity. This typically occurs when he turns 13 years old. From this point, he is considered responsible for his own actions in terms of Jewish law and is obligated to observe the commandments (mitzvot).

The term "Bar Mitzvah" literally means "son of the commandment," reflecting the boy's new status as one who is obligated to fulfill the Torah's commandments. The occasion is often celebrated with a ceremony where the Bar Mitzvah boy is called to the Torah to recite a blessing or read a portion of the weekly Torah reading, marking his first public participation in this mitzvah.

The Bar Mitzvah is both a personal and communal event, symbolizing the boy's entry into Jewish adulthood and his acceptance of the responsibilities that come with it. It's a time of joy, reflection, and often involves a festive gathering with family and friends.