Birth is an exciting time in a family’s life and Beth Tikvah is happy to help you celebrate such a special simcha. Our rabbi can assist expectant or new parents in choosing a Hebrew name and guide you through the ritual decision that best suits you.
Brit Milah – Covenant of Circumcision for boys
The Brit Milah (“covenant of circumcision”) refers to the religious ritual through which male babies are formally welcomed into the Jewish people. The ceremony is celebrated on the eighth day after birth. The Bris may be held at home or, at Beth Tikvah for members of the congregation. It is usually held during the morning or daylight hours. The circumcision is performed by a mohel who is trained in the surgical procedures of Brit Milah. Our rabbi will also be happy to recommend a mohel for your ceremony.
Simchat Bat – Welcoming ceremony for girls
At Beth Tikvah it is also customary to welcome girls into the community by giving them a Hebrew name. Members can choose to have a baby naming on Friday night during Shabbat services or by having a ceremony in the home. The ceremony during Shabbat services includes the entire family being called to the bima in front of the open ark and receiving a blessing in addition to the giving of a Hebrew name. These ceremonies are planned with the rabbi. If the ceremony is held at the temple, the family often honors their new daughter by providing the bima flowers or oneg for shabbat.
For additional information about these ceremonies, please contact Rabbi Kellner.
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Brit Milah/Brit Bat/Baby Namings Resources
- “Celebrating your New Jewish Daughter” by Debra Nussbaum Cohen
- “The New Name Dictionary” by Alfred Kolatch
- Jewish Baby Names
