As an adolescent, I never stopped to think about how wise my parents were to take me to Israel for my Bat Mitzvah. Our ceremony took place in the stone temple on top of Masada, the ancient fortress on the eastern edge of the Judean Desert. I was so excited by the spectacular views of the Dead Sea, the historic surroundings, and the whole experience I was sharing with the 18 others on our Bar Mitzvah - Bat Mitzvah tour, I couldn’t think beyond the moment.
It wasn’t until years later when I traveled to Israel again that I understood my mom and dad had given me so much more than a great vacation. Every time I leaf through the photo album of the trip or handle my parents’ gift of the Jewish star necklace I had admired at a Judaica store in Jerusalem, I’m moved by the memory of my special day. To me, these Bat Mitzvah gifts symbolize the rich traditions of Judaism, my passage into adulthood, and my role as a woman in the Jewish faith.
That’s how meaningful gifts are. They go beyond the item itself to remind us of life’s milestones and the special people who share them with us.
A child’s Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah is the perfect opportunity to give a unique Jewish gift with special meaning. Our artisans’ collection at Traditions Jewish Gifts makes it easy to choose the right one. A handcrafted yad to help the young man or woman keep their place during the reading of the Torah, a beautiful tzedakah box to help them save for gifts to charity, and an artisan-designed Kiddush cup for drinking wine or a pair of candlesticks to light for Shabbat or any holiday – all make memorable Jewish gifts.
Personalized items such as bookends by Gary Rosenthal or photo frames with Torah verses, names, and dates engraved are also great for honoring a special day.
My own daughter, Amanda, is preparing for Bat Mitzvah in a few years. Our celebration plans aren’t firm yet, but a few things are certain: It will be a festive day shared with family and remembered for the rest of her life.