The Basics of Bar Mitzvah Curriculum

Because the bar mitzvah is such an important event in a Jewish male's life as well as his parents' lives, there is much planning and preparation involved. In addition to planning the details of the event itself, it is important that the child preparing for the ceremony go through a period of study. This study prepares the child for chanting and Torah reading during the bar mitzvah ceremony. In addition, bar mitzvah curriculum prepares a young boy for life as a Jewish adult. The bar mitzvah marks the passage from child to adult in the eyes of the Jewish faith. While the child may not be considered a legal adult, the child is considered a spiritual adult in the eyes of the Jewish faith.

This means that the young man who has gone through a bar mitzvah is held morally and legally accountable for his actions. Before the bar mitzvah, this burden fell on the shoulders of his parents. After the bar mitzvah, the young man is considered a son of the commandment, which is the actual meaning of the words. The young man is able to take on adult responsibilities in the synagogue. He reads aloud from the Torah, which is an honor in the Jewish community. Some young men recite the Haftarah which is a reading from the Prophets book.

Bar mitzvah study also helps the young man prepare for the customary speech, which is used to accept responsibility, give thanks and express spiritual ideas. The speech should draw on Judaism and the significance of the event but should also be personalized for the young man giving it. Most young men get help from a trusted religious leader or family member when writing their speech. It is also customary for the father to give a speech as well.

It is not uncommon for bar mitzvah curriculum to last a year or more. Depending on what is being studied, classes can last from an average of four months to two years. There are classes for young men preparing for bar mitzvah, young women preparing for bat mitzvah, and even adults who never had a bar or bat mitzvah. While there are online courses that can help you prepare for this special event, most people prefer to study with a rabbi, most often at their regular temple.

Copyright 2007 Jack G. Nelson - All Rights Reserved

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