“What is hateful to yourself, do not do to your fellow man.
That is the whole Torah; the rest is just commentary.”
-Rabbi Hillel

Acquiring the title of Bat Mitzvah, Bar Mitzvah or B’Nei Mitzvah (that is, “responsible for the Commandments”) signifies a young person (at least 13 years of age) is at last skilled and mature enough to take part in the sacred obligations of Jewish life. This beautiful celebration takes place during a Shabbat Morning service and includes taking part in some public mitzvot for the very first time: presenting a Torah lesson to the Congregation, chanting from the Torah and Haftarah (prophetic) portions for the week, and leading parts of the service.

Formal study and experiential learning is involved in preparing to celebrate becoming a bar or bat mitzvah, including: studying Hebrew, attending services, learning about the Bible and Jewish literature, mastering Torah cantillation, and more. A special feeling of strengthened Jewish identity and inclusion in the community develops as students and their families make new friends, participate together in social, learning, and community service activities, and join in each other’s s’machot (happy events).

-from Congregation Beth Israel | Austin, Texas

Wait—I have heard of Bat Mitzvah and Bar Mitzvah—what’s the deal with the B’Nei Mitzvah?

“Bar/bat mitzvah” literally means “son/daughter of the commandments.” B’nei mitzvah is a gender neutral term that can be used for both sons and daughters (in this case, Leo, Hazel and Clementine) or for nonbinary children. 

The room the service is being held in is a bit unusual — why?

In October 2021, our beloved sanctuary was attacked by an arsonist — a shocking antisemitic hate crime directed at the oldest synagogue in Austin. As recovery began, our congregation discovered many additional significant construction issues, which has led to a multi-year fundraising campaign.

In the meantime, our creative community has worked to turn the Smith Auditorium, our gathering and education space, into a temporary sanctuary for weekly services and joyous occasions such as this one. We especially love the eternal flame that was created out of the stained glass that was damaged from the attack.

What happens after the service? 

Shabbat morning services are usually followed by a kiddush, or light meal, in the synagogue’s social hall or other space outside the sanctuary. The kiddush gets its name from the blessing over wine that is recited just before the meal. We’ll have plenty of nosh available after the service, but not much room to sit down and stay awhile, due to the arson-related space constraints of our synagogue.

Often b’nei mitzvah guests are invited to a separate party, either immediately after the service or that evening. In this case, we’re excited for everyone to join us for Leo, Hazel & Clementine’s party at a fun spot called Springdale Station from 5-10PM!

What should I wear to the temple?

It's a pretty casual temple, but we are also celebrating Clementine, Hazel and Leo’s milestone.  Business formal as in a suit (optional), slacks and a tie, or a nice dress or a formal pantsuit works. There is always a wide range of clothing at Congregation Beth Israel, but most everyone steps up their game to honor the synagogue, our clergy, and our guests of honor.

​When should I arrive to the service?

We'd love you to be there the entire service, but we also know it's long.  There is a playground behind the temple you can sneak out if you have wiggly little ones, and don't stress if you arrive late.  

How much should I participate in the b’nei mitzvah? 

​Kind of like church, when the congregation stands, stand if you are able, when the congregation sits, join them.  There are prayer books in seats, and our synagogue posts most of the prayers and readings on big screens on either side of the bimah (or stage). Please participate as much as you feel comfortable, including singing and sounding out prayers (many are in English as it is a reform temple).  

​What's the deal with the hats and shawls?  

​The small round head covers are called kippahs (KEEP-ah) or yarmulkes  and are most often worn by men.  The temple will have them at the entrance, please feel comfortable putting one on.  In our temple, some women wear them as well.  The shawls are called tallit  (tall-EET or TALL-is), and are only worn by Jews. Do not feel compelled to wear a tallit if you are not Jewish or do not feel comfortable.  

​Gifts? 

​While it is typical for guests to give money or a celebratory present to the b’nei mitzvah (monetary gifts are often tied to the number 18, which in Hebrew is spelled “Chai” and means “Life.” Side note — you may have heard this word in the Jewish toast of “L’Chaim!” which means “To Life!”), our family feels like your presence is our present.  You are welcome to give a gift to the b’nei mitzvah of your choice or feel free to donate their tzedekah (charity) project, Austin Story Makers.

​How do I congratulate the hosts?  

In Jewish culture it's appropriate to congratulate the bat/bar mitzvah and their family.  The best way to say congratulations is by saying 'Mazel tov!'  Want to take a up a notch and get your Hebrew on?  Check out this little guide for phrases and pronuncation.