Are you wondering how much to give for bar mitzvah or bat mitzvah gift in 2023? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Giving money or cash is the most traditional and common option when it comes to bar mitzvah gifts or bat mitzvah gifts.
But how much money is appropriate, and what other gift options are there? What is the bat mitzvah etiquette or an appropriate bar mitzvah gift amount?
First, let’s start with the basics. A bar mitzvah (boy) or bat mitzvah (girl) is a Jewish rite of passage, celebrating a child’s official entry into adulthood. It’s a momentous occasion, and you want to make sure that your gift is appropriate and thoughtful.
So, if you’re unsure about what to give as a bar mitzvah gift or bat mitzvah gift, don’t worry! In this article, we’ll provide you with a list of how much bar mitzvah money is appropriate to give depending on your relationship to the child.
We’ll also suggest some cool and unique gift ideas beyond traditional bar and bat mitzvah jewelry.
Whether you’re attending a bar or bat mitzvah celebration for the first time or you’re a seasoned pro, we’ve got you covered. So, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about giving the perfect bar or bat mitzvah gift in 2023.
And who knows, you may even get inspired for your next birthday gift!
BUY A BAR MITZVAH OR BAT MITZVAH CARD HERE (Amazon)
Read on to find out everything you need to know about bar and bat mitzvah gifts!
Revolutionize Your Finances & Invest in Yourself Today
Ready to take charge of your finances? Subscribe now for expert advice and gain financial knowledge!
Are you attending a bar or bat mitzvah soon and unsure of what to give as a gift?
How Much Money Do You Give For a Bar or Bat Mitzvah in 2023
You know that the religious ceremony is important to the family, but you want your gift to reflect that importance and show your appreciation.
If you’re not sure how much money to give for a bar or bat mitzvah gift amount, this article is for you.
We’ll explore the traditional amounts for a bar or bat mitzvah gift, as well as how to pick the perfect gift for the occasion.
Money is the most common gift for a bar mitzvah, but what amount? The short answer to ‘how much money do you give‘ is in the bar or bat mitzvah cash gifts chart below, but isn’t also a good idea to spend a few minutes to get to know a little bit about the following?
| Guest | Bar and Bat Mitzvah Gift of Cash | Multiples of 18 |
| Friends and Classmates | $35 to $75 | $36, $54, or $72 |
| Close Friends | $50 to $100 | $54, $72, $90, or $108 |
| Relatives and Acquaintances | $100 to $150 | $108, $126, $144, or $162 |
| Close Family and Friends | $100 to $500 | See the chart below |
- What is a bar or bat mitzvah – and what is the difference?
- Why is money still considered the most common bar mitzvah and bat mitzvah gifts?
- You may have heard to gift money in increments of 18 – I will explain why 18 is a significant number for bar and bat mitzvah gifts of cash.
Click on the table of contents to jump to a section as well.
What is an appropriate gift amount for a bar mitzvah or bat mitzvah?
QUICK GIFT LIST – SAVE TIME AND CLICK THE LINKS BELOW FOR A CARD AND GIFT
Bar or Bat Mitzvah Money Gift Amount Calculator
You can calculate your own gift amount quickly and simply with the below bar or bat mitzvah money gift calculator. The calculator is very quick and easy to use. I will explain it in more detail below, but it is good luck and Jewish tradition to give gifts in multiples of 18 (18 = Chai = Life)
- So simply enter the number 18 for A1
- In A2, enter the multiple of Chai you would like to gift.
- The calculator will calculate how much money to gift.
- You can adjust the multiple higher or lower to change your gift amount.
Considerations of Gift Giving:
When it comes to giving gifts for bar mitzvahs, there are a few things to take into consideration. The most important factor is the relationship you have with the bar mitzvah boy or girl. If you are close family, you will want to give a more substantial gift than if you are a distant relative or friend.
Another important factor is your financial situation. If you are able to afford it, you may want to give a gift in the range of $90 to $126, which is two to four times the amount of a typical bar mitzvah gift.
If you are on a tight budget, you may want to give a gift in the range of $36 to $54, which is three to six times the amount of a typical gift for a bar mitzvah. Whatever you decide to give, the most important thing is that
in multiples of $18 for Chai or life. Friends = $36, $54 or $78. Close friends = $90 to $126. Family = $90 – $126 (half for your kids) per person.
What Is a Bar Mitzvah? What Is a Bat Mitzvah?
Have you ever wondered what is the difference between a bar mitzvah vs a bat mitzvah?
When you attend a Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah, you are celebrating the point that marks the moment a Jewish child comes of age at 13. On this day, they are considered responsible for their own actions and are held accountable to Jewish law.
This special occasion happens when a child turns 13 years old, and it is a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate. The event usually takes place in a synagogue, and the boy or girl will read from the Torah (the Jewish holy book) and say a prayer.
B‘nai mitzvah” means a ceremony for two or more boys or mixed gender. B‘not mitzvahis the plural for girls.
Click to expand answers:
Bat Mitzvah: What It Is and How to Celebrate
A bat mitzvah is a coming of age ceremony for Jewish girls. It is usually celebrated when a girl turns 12 or 13 years old. The bat mitzvah marks the girl’s transition from childhood to adulthood. It is a time for her to show her commitment to her religion and her community. The bat mitzvah usually includes a religious service, a party, and gifts.
Bar Mitzvah: When It Is and How to Celebrate – Chabad.org
The word “bar” means “son” in Hebrew, and “mitzvah” means “commandment” or “good deed.” So, a bar mitzvah literally means “a son of the commandment.” This coming of age ritual has been a part of Jewish tradition for centuries. On the day of his bar mitzvah, the 13-year-old boy will read from the Torah in front of his family and community.
What’s The Difference Between Bar Mitzvah And Bat Mitzvah?
A Bar Bat Mitzvah is a coming of age ceremony for Jewish boys and girls. The word “bar” means “son of” in Hebrew, and “bat” means “daughter of.”
“Mitzvah” means “commandment” or “good deed.”
So, a Bar Mitzvah is a “son of commandment,” and a Bat Mitzvah is a “daughter of commandment.”
The Bar Bat Mitzvah ceremony is traditionally held when a Jewish child turns 13 years old. boys have a Bar Mitzvah, and girls have a Bat Mitzvah. During the ceremony, the child reads from the Torah (the Jewish holy book) in front of the synagogue.
After the ceremony, the child is considered to be a man or woman, and is now responsible for following the Jewish commandments.
What Happens At a Bar Mitzvah? What Happens At a Bat Mitzvah?
During the ceremony, the Bar or Bat Mitzvah will lead the congregation in prayer – their first act as an adult! They will then read from the Torah (the Jewish holy book) and give a speech. This is a big moment for them, as it shows that they are now responsible for following Jewish law.
After the ceremony, there is usually a big party to celebrate this important milestone in their lives.
This is a time for the boy or girl to show off their new skills, like dancing and socializing. There will be food and music, and the whole event is a joyous occasion.
Bar and Bat Mitzvah – Practices in Judaism
What Should I Wear to a Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah?
If you are a boy who is being called to the Torah, you will need to wear a tallit, or prayer shawl. You will also need to wear a yarmulke/kippah, or head covering. If you are a girl, you may wear a head covering, but it is not required.
For both boys and girls, it is customary to dress in your finest clothes. Many people choose to wear traditional Jewish clothing, such as a suit or dress. Others simply wear whatever makes them feel their best.
Plant a Tree In Israel In Honor of the Bar or Bat Mitzvah Child
Plant a tree in Israel to memorialize family, friends and loved ones. This is a meaningful and traditional way in the Jewish faith to show you care and help green the land of Israel. Along with each order, a beautiful certificate is mailed to the recipient with your own personal message.
Bar Mitzvah Gifting Etiquette – Should I Bring A Gift To A Bar Mitzvah?
A bar mitzvah is a significant event in a Jewish boy’s life, marking his transition into adulthood. The same for a girl and her bat mitzvah. It is also a time for family and friends to come together to celebrate this milestone.
One of the questions often asked is whether or not it is appropriate to bring a gift to a bar or bat mitzvah. There is no easy answer to this question, as there is no set etiquette. However, it is generally considered good manners to bring a gift, especially if you are close to the family or the bar mitzvah boy or bat mitzvah girl.
What is a good gift for bar mitzvah?
If you are unsure what to give, cash, check or a gift card is always a safe bet. Alternatively, a donation to a charity in the bar mitzvah child or bat mitzvah girl’s name is also a thoughtful gesture. See the chai (18 or for life) chart above for gift amounts, and see below for other Bar or Bat Mitzvah gift ideas
At the end of the day, the most important thing is to show your support and congratulations to the bar mitzvah boy or bat mitzvah girl, on this special occasion.
Gifts for Bar Mitzvah in Multiple of 18? Chai = Life
Yes, it is true. There is a significant importance of a Bar Mitzvah, or Bat Mitzvah gift, being in increments or multiple of 18. Why 18 for a bar mitzvah gift?
What Are Appropriate Bar Mitzvah Gifts and Bat Mitzvah Gifts?
If you are attending a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, it is customary to bring a gift for the boy or girl. Most people will give cash as a bar mitzvah gift or gift for bat mitzvah.
Some people choose to give a gift that is related to Judaism, such as a mezuzah (a small case that contains a piece of the Torah) or a menorah (a candelabra used in Jewish homes). You could also give a gift that is related to the child’s hobbies or interests.
Whatever you choose, the most important thing is to show the child that you are happy for them and proud of their accomplishment.
What is The Right Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah Gift Amount in 2023?
What is the appropriate amount of money or gift amount for a bar mitzvah in 2023? If you are looking for ideas, we can help you with that too! There is a range of what people typically give as gifts, so you can use your own discretion. Just remember that this is a significant life event and milestone for your friend or relative so make sure your gift is thoughtful and memorable!
When it comes time for a young Jewish man to celebrate his bar mitzvah, it is customary for him to receive a cash gift from his family and friends. While the amount of the gift varies, it is typically enough to cover the costs of guests attending the bar mitzvah celebration. The money is typically used to pay for the bar mitzvah banquet, invitations, and other related expenses.
What to say on a bar mitzvah card or bat mitzvah card?
A bar or bat mitzvah is a momentous occasion in a Jewish person’s life, and it is customary to give a card to congratulate the person on this achievement. There are a few things to keep in mind when writing a message in a bar or bat mitzvah card.
– First, it is important to use language that is appropriate for the occasion; avoid using slang or profanity, and keep the message respectful.
– Second, a bar or bat mitzvah marks the beginning of a Jewish person’s journey into adulthood, so it is appropriate to wish them luck on this new phase of their life.
– Finally, it is common to include a quote from the Torah or another religious text in a bar or bat mitzvah card; this can be a source of inspiration for the new adult as they start out on their own.
Examples of what to write in a bar mitzvah card or bat mitzvah card?
You are not alone in wondering what to write in bar mitzvah card. Some examples below include
* The most common thing to write in a bar or bat mitzvah car is ““Mazel tov“- a Jewish or Yiddish phrase expressing congratulations or wishing someone good luck.
* “Mazel tov, my friend! Have a wonderful bar/bat mitzvah celebration!”
* “Best wishes and mazel tov to you as you celebrate your bar/bat mitzvah!”
* “Congratulations on coming of age!”
* “Wishing you lots of happiness as you enter adulthood“
* “Wishing you so much happiness as you celebrate your bar/bat mitzvah!”
* “I hope the lessons you learned while preparing for your bat mitzvah will stay with you always”
A warm closing:
– Mazel tov,
– Congratulations,
– With pride and best wishes,
How Are You Saving For College? Everything You Need To Know About 529 Plans
Why Are Bar Mitzvah Gifts in Multiples of 18? (Chai)
The number 18 is considered to be a lucky number in the Jewish faith, and so giving gifts in multiples of 18 is seen as a way of bestowing good luck upon the bar mitzvah child. Common bar mitzvah gifts in multiples of 18 include money, gift cards, and jewelry.
18 seems like such a random number – why is 18 considered lucky?
– Giving money in multiples of $18 is symbolic of granting “chai,” or life, as “chai” is the Hebrew word for “life.”
– CHET and YUD are the two Hebrew letters used in the word “Chai.”
– The Hebrew character CHET, which is the eighth, and the letter YUD, which is the tenth, add up to the number 18 when combined.
– Providing a gift in multiples of $18 is a metaphor for giving “chai” or life.
– Therefore, instead of giving $50, gift $54. Rather than giving $100 as your present, round it up to $108 so that it has a more symbolic meaning.
So How Much Money Should I Gift For a Bar or Bat Mitzvah?
* A child who is attending a friend’s bar or bat mitzvah is likely to gift a check or cash for two to four times chai, which is $36 to $72. Chai being symbolic, $72 stands for 4 Life. For a very close friend the range is closer to $54–$108.
* An adult friend of the family typically gives a little more, starting at six times Chai or $108. It also will depend on how many family members are present, who can give up to $200 or more.
* For a family, four times Chai, or $72, would be considered on the low end – and up. In larger cities it is common to give gifts in the range of $360 to $540. $108 to $180 per family member is more typical and increases as the relationship is closer.
* If you wanted to gift $100 or more, you could either give $108 ($18 x 6) or start by adding 18 to 100 and give $118, $136, $154, or even $180.
Cash or Check For Bar Mitzvah Gift?
As the Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah approaches, you may be wondering what is the best way to give a gift. Should you give cash or write a check? There are pros and cons to both options.
Giving cash may be the simplest option. You can put the money in an envelope and hand it to the child on the day of the event. There is no need to worry about finding a gift that the child will like or that fits within your budget.
However, there are a few downsides to giving cash as a gift. Cash can be easily lost or stolen. If you give the child a check, they can deposit it into their bank account and it will be safe. Writing a check may be a good option if you want to give a larger gift, but do not have the cash on hand. You can make the check out to the child or to the Bar/Bat Mitzvah fund.
Bar mitzvah Gift If Not Attending?
Unfortunately, you won’t be able to attend the bar or bat mitzvah ceremony and celebrate with your friends or family.
If you are not able to attend a bar mitzvah, it is still customary to give a gift. The amount of the gift is not as important as the thoughtfulness behind it. A nice gift idea for a bar mitzvah would be something that the bar mitzvah boy can use in his adult life, such as a nice watch or a gift certificate to a nice restaurant. Whatever you choose, be sure to include a card with your personal congratulations and best wishes for the bar mitzvah child’s future.
Alternatives To Cash As a Gift
If you do not want to give the bar mitzvah or bat mitzvah a gift of cash or check – there are a couple of other similar alternatives that are very common.
The first would be a gift card. A Visa, Mastercard, or American Express gift card are common – but it is most common now for an Amazon Gift Card to be gifted. Again, gifting in increments of 18 is considered to be good luck.
You can get a very nice gift card box that comes in traditional Jewish colors of blue and white. Choose your denomination on the right side, if you choose to get a gift card in increments of $18
Buying Israeli Bonds is a second great alternative to cash as a bar mitzvah or bat mitzvah gift
Giving Israel bonds as gifts is a unique way to mark important occasions. Israel Bonds have a five-year redemption period and support Israel.
- Online shoppers can acquire Mazel Tov Bonds, a unique gift, for a $100 minimum.
- Alternatively, E-Mitzvah bonds are available for a minimum purchase price of $36.
- For additional information, go to the Israel Bonds website:
- Israel Bonds | Invest in Israel
Do I gift the money with a card? Do I write a message on the card?
Do you really want to make the new adult feel special? Then be sure to include the words “Mazel Tov” on the card!!
A simple Mazel Tov on your big day, or Mazel Tov on your Bar (or Bat) Mitzvah!, is perfect.
Bar and Bat Mitzvah Gifts Other Than Money – What do you give for a bat mitzvah gift?
While a bar or bat mitzvah celebrates a child’s graduation into adulthood, it is still important to remember that this newly designated adult is still very much 13 years old. When choosing a bar mitzvah gift or bat mitzvah gifts, you will definitely want to keep that in mind when deciding on a gift.
Instead, try to focus on gifts that will help the child transition into this new phase of their life.
There are several Judaica related gifts that are very appropriate and appreciated as gifts for bar mitzvah and bat mitzvahs.
One option is to give a gift that will help the child in their religious studies. A new siddur, or Jewish prayer book, is a great option—it will be a constant reminder of their new responsibilities and will be used often during services.
Top Choice:
Siddur Tehillat Hashem
If you want to go a step further, you could also give a gift that will help the child learn more about their heritage and culture. A book on the history of the Jewish people or a guide to Jewish customs and traditions would be a great way to help them learn more about their identity.
Top 4 Choices:
- Jewish Literacy: The Most Important Things to Know About the Jewish Religion
- An Illustrated History of the Jewish People
- Exile: Portraits of the Jewish Diaspora
- Essential Judaism
Yad
A very personal and memorable bat or bar mitzvah gift would be a magnificent yad (torah pointer) as a one-of-a-kind gift. A Tallit Bag, which can be used all year long, is another item I enjoy giving as gifts.
Top Choice:
Mezuzah
A Mezuzah is also highly special and can have a personalized phrase or name inscribed on it. There are numerous colors available and designs available!
Top Choice:
Jewelry
We absolutely adore the notion of giving a young woman her very first Star of David necklace, as a Bat Mitzvah gift:
Top Choice:
Or this Chai necklace for a young man as a Bar Mitzvah gift
Top Choice:
Menorahs
These beautiful and classic menorahs were recently given as a Bat Mitzvah gift and Bar Mitzvah gifts as well.
Top Choices
- Decorative Handmade 9 Branch Iron Hanukkah Menorah
- HalleluYAH Menorah 7 Branched Candelabra
- Matashi Hand Painted Enamel Menorah Candelabra
If you’re looking for a more personal gift, you could always give something that the child can use in their everyday life. A nice watch or piece of jewelry is a great way to mark this special occasion, and it’s something that they can wear with pride.
Another option is to give a gift that will help the child in their hobbies or interests—if they’re into sports, a new piece of equipment or gear would be perfect. Or, if they’re into art or music, you could give them a new sketchbook or instrument.
Conclusion
Giving the perfect bar or bat mitzvah gift amount is a personal decision, but it is important to remember that the gift should be meaningful and reflective of the magnitude of the life-changing event.
As we have seen, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, and the type and size of your gift will depend on your relationship with the bar or bat mitzvah, as well as your own financial situation.
For a bar or bat mitzvah, it is common to give a gift in multiples of 18. This is because 18 represents chai, which in Jewish tradition, represents life. So, by giving a gift in multiples of 18, you are wishing the bar or bat mitzvah child good luck in their life.
No matter the size of your gift, however, the most important thing is to present it with love and respect, to show that you are honoring the special occasion and the individual celebrating it.
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
Revolutionize Your Finances & Invest in Yourself Today
Ready to take charge of your finances? Subscribe now for expert advice and gain financial knowledge!
If you have made it this far – you probably appreciated the above article. As a thank you, please help me by:
- Sharing the article with your friends on social media – and like and follow us there as well.
- Sign up for the FREE personal finance newsletter, and never miss anything again.
- Take a look around the site for other articles that you may enjoy.
Note: The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial or legal advice. Consult with a professional advisor or accountant for personalized guidance.
