SIMCHAT BAT

Baby girls are named in synagogue on a day when the Torah is read. There is no time limit, but it is customarily done as soon as possible. Most parents wait until the mother is strong enough to be present so she can hear the prayer which is offered for her speedy and complete recovery and that of her child. It has become popular to celebrate the birth of a girl with a Simchat Bat, usually held at home.

This can be scheduled at a convenient time, during the day or in the evening. Parents can write their own ceremony or engage a professional who will bring a service which consists of prayers and English readings. There are opportunities to honor family or close friends. Please contact Rabbi Shron for additional information about the Simchat Bat ceremony which he performs. According to Jewish tradition, the name of a person describes his or her essence. It provides identity and generational connection. It begins the process of shaping a human being. Choosing a name empowers parents with creativity, just as G-d empowered Adam when He assigned him the first independent human act, the task of naming the beasts of the field, the birds of the sky and every living thing. The rabbis tell us that a name can influence the behavior of the person and provide a spiritual connection between the individual and his soul. A names carries enormous potential. It can define the individual or describe his personality. It can be a portent for the future or a wish that the person live up to the potential expressed in the meaning of the name. It is important, therefore, to give much thought to a child's shem kodesh, sacred or Hebrew name.