First, let's understand what the words "Bar (or Bat) Mitzvah" actually mean. The phrase literally translates to being "son (daughter) of obligation" -- i.e. the young person becomes fully responsible to observe the commandments of the Torah.

Although we commonly refer to "having" a Bar Mitzvah, technically speaking, this is impossible. The term "Bar Mitzvah" refers to a status, in the same way being a student or being a parent is a status.

A Jewish boy automatically becomes Bar Mitzvah when he turns 13 years old, and a girl at age 12. (In general, girls tend to mature earlier than boys.)

On a deeper level, just as their bodies are growing and changing, so too their souls are growing and changing. The kabbalistic tradition tells us that a person's spiritual being has several levels of soul. A new level of soul (called neshama) comes into awareness at Bar/Bat Mitzvah time. This is the time when their moral awareness and sensitivity fully develops, enabling them to take complete responsibility for their actions.

The commentators explain that in Judaism, a mitzvah performed because one is commanded, is considered greater than a mitzvah performed voluntarily. This is because a person has a natural aversion to fulfilling an obligation. Yet overcoming this aversion is a sign of maturity, and this is what the Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebrates -- reaching the stage of obligation.

Also, upon reaching age 13, a boy begins the obligation to put on tefillin every day (except Shabbat and holidays.

(www.aish.com)

To organise a Bar/Bat Mitzvah for your son or daughter please contact our rabbi.