I Am Jewish (Religions of the World)

When I turn thirteen, I will have a Bar Mitzvah (bar MITZ-vah) ceremony. Bar Mitzvah is an old ritual. Before my Bar Mitzvah, I will learn to read and speak Hebrew. I will read from the Torah in front of everyone in the synagogue. This shows that I am an adult, ready to share the responsibilities of Jewish life. Then we will have a big party to
celebrate.
When my sister Sarah turns twelve, she will have a Bat Mitzvah (bot MITZ-vah).
My sister Rebecca is getting married soon. My father says that marriage is one of the most sacred (SAY-kred) events in Jewish life because it is a new beginning for the bride and groom. They will be married under a wedding canopy called a chupah (HUP-pah). Our rabbi will perform the wedding. At the end of the ceremony, the groom will break a glass by stepping on it, and everyone will shout “Mazel tov!” which means congratulations. Then we will celebrate with a big party.