What is a Bat Mitzvah?
When a Jewish girl turns 12 or 13, she becomes a Bat Mitzvah. That means “daughter of the commandment” in Hebrew. It’s a way of saying she’s now old enough to start taking responsibility for her own choices, actions, and values. In Jewish tradition, she’s no longer a child. She’s someone who counts.
But the day itself isn’t just about age. It’s about learning, preparation, and participation. Annabel has spent months studying prayers, reading Hebrew, learning how to chant from the Torah, and thinking deeply about the meaning behind the words and rituals.
This is a moment Annabel has worked hard for. It’s one of the most meaningful milestones in Jewish life.
The Service
Morning prayers begin the day. These blessings help everyone start with gratitude. They give thanks for waking up, for being alive, and for being part of something bigger.
During the Torah service, a sacred scroll is carried through the room. This scroll is called the Torah. It contains the first five books of the Bible and is written entirely by hand in Hebrew. There are no vowels or punctuation, which makes reading from it a serious challenge.
Annabel will read a section from the Torah in Hebrew. She has been practicing for months and has memorized the melody and the words. This is one of the biggest moments in the service.
After reading, she will give a d’var Torah, which means “a word of Torah.” This is her chance to speak from the heart about what she read, what she learned, and how it connects to her life.
Some of Annabel’s family and loved ones may be invited to take part in honors. They might recite a blessing, help carry the Torah, or help with other parts of the service. Every role is meaningful.
The service ends with more blessings and a joyful conclusion. In some communities, people throw candy as a sweet way to celebrate. This tradition is simple and fun and helps mark the end of the morning with happiness.