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First Menstruation

Many Jewish women recall being slapped across the face by their mothers when they began to menstruate. Whatever the explanation of this ritual, it has surely outlived its usefulness, if ever it had any. The question which confronts us today is how, in a religion filled with blessings, do we find a blessing for this momentous but largely unrecognized occasion? Some women have answered this question by creating elaborate ceremonies for their daughters which they celebrated among female friends. Others have felt that such a ritual would be far too embarrassing for the already shy adolescent and have devised more private mother-daughter moments. However it is acknowledged, first menstruation is rite of passage that deserves recognition.

 

Latest Rituals

A ritual for a girl’s first period. Includes a circle of names, blessings, candle-lighting, and gift-giving. Ritual objects include a tambourine, red ribbons, a decorative egg, a ring, candles, and red fruits.
abstract red swoosh on black background

A moonlit ceremony on the shores of a brook. Celebrates the entrance of a daughter into womanhood. Includes songs, book-giving, adapted tashlich ritual, and blessings.

moonlit pond surrounded by trees
A description of a menarche ceremony created by a woman for her daughter
new moon in pink sky at sunrise

A private ritual to honor a girl’s entrance into womanhood. Includes rainwater bubble bath, blessings, and teachings on sexual health and well-being.

bathtub with cream colored towel
A Yemenite menarche ritual for a mother and daughter.
two hands touching

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