Birth CeremoniesJewish boys are circumcised on the 8th day
after birthCeremony is performed by a Mohel (trained
Jew)Usually takes place in the Synagogue, but
can also be done at home2 names given at ceremony – Common name
& formal name
Birth Ceremonies Cont.Circumcision serves 2 purposes:
Physical sign of the covenant of the covenant between Abraham & God
Constant reminder of religious heritage
Girls given their names at a similar ceremony on the Sabbath shortly after birth
Prayers said during ceremony ‘Even as this child has entered into the Covenant,
so may he enter into the Torah, the marriage canopy and into good deeds.’
Prayers for health of baby & mother
Bar/Bat MitzvahWhen a boy turns 13, on the first Sabbath after his 13th
birthday, he celebrates his bar mitzvah, which means “son of the commandment.”
He is now considered an adult in the Jewish faith.To prepare, the boy studies Hebrew, as he will chant a
portion of the Torah in front of the congregation. He may also be required to write an essay explaining this excerpt.
In Reform Judaism, a girl celebrates her bat mitzvah on the first Sabbath after her 12th birthday (meaning “daughter of the commandment”).
The bat mitzvah ceremony mirrors that of the bar mitzvah.
MarriageCeremony called Kiddhushin means to be holyMarriage instituted by God
Must create a home where God dwells forever
Ceremony takes place in the Synagogue under a canopy called a Chuppah – symbol of the couples home
Ceremony led by Rabbi & Cantor Both drink blessed wine from a shared glass Ring given to the bride & makes a pledge of fidelity Glass is then taken and broken (by stomping on it)
Symbolic of difficult times
Marriage Cont.Divorce
Allowed under Jewish law, but is highly discouraged
Friends & family try to get the couple to get through their difficulties
If unable to settle their differences, husband gives wife a Get If get is not issued, the marriage has not been
finalized Once Get is issued, each person is free to remarry
in the Jewish religion
DeathFunerals take place soon after deathService very simpleCremation not allowed as man would be
destroying what God madeBody washed & wrapped in a white linen
shroud (done by respected members of the community)
Coffin is simple plain woodMembers of the immediate family each shovel
earth into the grave
Death Cont.Shiva – 7 day period of mourning following
deathCandle is lit at home after funeral service,
symbolizes the soul of the deceasedSmall meal is eaten (meal of consolation),
symbolizes the continuation of lifeSigns of grief
Sit on low stools No leather shoes All mirrors covered