Although the name in general in Hebrew is this, hence meaning ‘children (benei) of the commandment (mitzvah),’ in reality, a distinction is made between females and males that originates from the name itself. For females, it is called Bat Mitzvah (bat means ‘daughter’), and for males, it is Bar Mitzvah (bar means ‘son’). Why is this? For two fundamental reasons:

1. Both reach puberty at different ages. Females mostly earlier than males, starting from age 12, while males start from age 13.
2. Their interests as parts of a family and community are inherently different, as God created them: “male and female” (Genesis 1:27). Therefore, the form and content will also be different in various aspects that will be considered by their parents and tutors.

The Benei Mitzvah is a ceremony in itself, one might say a “graduation,” based on everything the parents have taught them up to that point regarding God’s commandments. It does not mean that the children are saved or anything of the sort from that moment on—remember, only God decides this—but rather, this ceremony marks the point where parents and the entire community of believers ensure that they already know what is necessary to make spiritual decisions in life, such as conversion, baptism, ministerial commitment, etc.

As a ceremony, it is ultimately an event filled with joy, for how precious it is to see the new generation ready to take on the spiritual challenges of life. Also, as an important event, it implies a preparation of the children that comes through the different stages of the life cycle, starting from gestation and reaching this point (Proverbs 2). Therefore, it can be understood that the Benei Mitzvah is not something to simply “do” in terms of ceremony, but rather it is reached through the journey of the children’s lives. With this method gifted by God, the debate about who is responsible for their education ends conclusively with the parents. Although, as is clear, they will receive support from the community of believers, their leadership, and their tutors (teachers).

Author: Dr. Liber Aguiar.