Bat Mitzvah (baht MITZ-vah) – Hebrew for “daughter of the commandment.” It marks a Jewish girl's coming of age at 12 or 13. She is now recognized as responsible for her own actions and can participate fully in Jewish community life. Cue the celebration!

Bimah (BEE-mah) – The raised platform in the synagogue where the Torah is read and the service is led. Think of it as the central stage for the spiritual action.

Torah (TOH-rah) – The most sacred text in Judaism, made up of the Five Books of Moses. It’s handwritten on a scroll and read aloud during the service. No pressure, right?

Aliyah (ah-lee-YAH) – Meaning “going up.” When someone is called to the bimah to recite blessings over the Torah reading, they receive an aliyah. Josephine will have one (or more!) as part of her big moment.

Rabbi (RAH-by) – The spiritual leader of the synagogue—part teacher, part guide, part MC of the service. My Rabbi and mentor's name is Rabbi Michael Stanger, he's funny, smart and loves the Yankees.

Cantor (CAN-tor) – The person who leads the musical parts of the service. Think soloist meets spiritual rock star. In our case, the description fits the bill, our Cantor Yosi Karavani was a pop singer in Israel in the past and has an incredible voice.

Haftarah (HAHF-tah-rah) – A reading from the Prophets (part of the Hebrew Bible), often chanted by the Bat Mitzvah. Different from the Torah, but just as important.

Kippah (kee-PAH) – A small head covering worn during the service usually reserved for the boys and men as a sign of respect and awareness of something greater. Guests of all backgrounds are welcome to wear one.

Tallit (tah-LEET) – A version of a holy superhero cape! It’s a special Jewish prayer shawl worn during big moments—like a Bat Mitzvah—to help us feel connected to something greater. The fringes, called tzitzit (ZEET-zeet), remind us to be kind, mindful, and to live with purpose. When Josephine puts on her tallit, it’s like wrapping herself in tradition, love, and a big spiritual hug from generations past. Pretty cool, right?

Mazel Tov! (MAH-zl TAWV) – This means “Congratulations!” in Hebrew. Say it loud and proud when Josephine finishes her reading! 

Yishar Koach (Yee-Shar Koh-Akh) - Literally means “straight strength,” but around here, it’s Jewish for “Way to go!” or “Nice job!” You say it to someone after they’ve done something meaningful—like reading from the Torah or leading a prayer. It's basically a spiritual high-five. So when you hear someone say “Yishar Koach!” to Josephine, they’re cheering her on for totally crushing it! 

Oneg (OH-neg) – A reception after the service with food and sweets. Think bagels, lox, and everything nice.

Shabbat (shah-BAHT) – The Jewish Sabbath, lasting from Friday evening to Saturday evening. A time for rest, reflection, and celebration—perfect timing for a Bat Mitzvah.