Introduction
Thank you for joining us to welcome our daughter into the Jewish people with a name of her own. This is a true simkhahA happy occasion. Usually describes a celebration for a life cycle event (birth, wedding, etc.). (joy) which we will mark with blessings, singing, and eating. At this morning’s services Sam was called to the TorahThe Five Books of Moses, and the foundation of all of Jewish life and lore. The Torah is considered the heart and soul of the Jewish people, and study of the Torah is a high mitzvah. The Torah itself a scroll that is hand lettered on parchment, elaborately dressed and decorated, and stored in a decorative ark. It is chanted aloud on Mondays, Thursdays, and Shabbat, according to a yearly cycle. Sometimes "Torah" is used as a colloquial term for Jewish learning and narrative in general., and a prayer was said announcing our daughter’s name. Today, many traditions are being created to welcome a Jewish girl into the community. The following ceremony was composed by Elisha, and incorporates elements from a brit milahLit. Covenant of circumcision. As a sign of the covenant, God commanded Abraham to circumcise himself and his descendants. An infant boy is circumcised on the eighth day of his life, often at home or in synagogue. A festive meal follows., other baby girl ceremonies, and Jewish weddings.
The full Simkhat Bat Ceremony may be downloaded below.
