Forgotten Judaica

Bar Mitzvah And Bat Mitsvah Gifts

In many a film or television series people who have no part in the Jewish faith have probably heard the term Bar Mitzvah. While the popular media has at least given us some idea of what it means, in the Jewish culture it is a very important event that is not to be taken all that lightly. Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah gifts, for example are a very important part of the ceremony. What one person gives or does not give can sometimes mean a lot if you are not aware of the culture and the customs that surround it.

Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah is a Jewish tradition that applies to young boys or girls who are coming of age. Generally speaking this is around the age of thirteen. There is no difference in when it occurs between boys and girls. Loosely translated the words mean something like ‘to whom the commandments apply’ and explains perfectly what the ceremony is about. Up to the age where the ceremony takes place a child is not considered to be responsible for their actions. At this age, however, they do become responsible for their actions and the commandments and Jewish laws will now apply to them as well. It is an important part of their growing up both in their culture and in their religion. Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah gifts are also a very important part of this tradition.

Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah gifts are a tradition that is part of the ceremony. As with weddings and other celebrations the gifts are given as a way to commemorate the celebration. Usual gift include religious tokens, religious items, religious books, or writing implements. Other gifts that are becoming more common are gifts of money. Not physical money but rather money in the form or bonds or savings. The idea is that the money be saved for college or further education when the boy or girl is older.

According to Jewish tradition Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah gifts that are given in multiples of eighteen are considered auspicious and a good sign. The number eighteen is related to the Hebrew word for life. Gifts of money that are given in multiples of eighteen are considered especially auspicious and are becoming more and more common as gifts. While money is becoming a more common gift, there are still many who prefer more traditional gifts that have some spiritual value as well to the person receiving it.

While the public audience may be aware of the practice of Bar Mitzvahs and Bat Mitzvahs, they actually know very little. Just looking at some like the Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah gifts traditions already shows us that there is a lot more to these ceremonies than we may think. Perhaps it is worth learning more about the various cultures that we share the world with in an effort to live together in harmony.


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