The Ultimate Guide to the Best Bar Mitzvah Gifts (2023Edition)
It's hard to know what to get a boy for his bar mitzvah. This blog post will solve the mystery with many meaningful and fun gifts for 2023!
What are appropriate bar mitzvah boy gifts?
How we choose:
Finding the perfect gift for a bar mitzvah can be a daunting task.
That's why we put together this bar mitzvah gift guide with an extensive selection of top-rated bar mitzvah gift ideas based on our expertise and thousands of online reviews!
We've done our research to curate only the best gifts, ensuring the bar mitzvah boy will feel loved & celebrated.
Money Holder
Why it’s on the list:
Money is one of the best bar mitzvah gifts for any bar mitzvah boy!
Grandparents and other family members take great pleasure in giving money. It is the perfect gift (and most wanted) for any bar mitzvah boy.
This money card holder is perfect for putting cash, a check, or a gift card into. It's specifically for a bar mitzvah and he will know just by the shape what goodness is inside.
In case you're wondering if he is going to immediately buy the newest video games, no need. The money most likely will be going into the bank for the future- travel, a car, college, or just as a nice financial start to adulthood, and leaving a portion to be donated to a charity.
Amazon Gift Card-Bar Mitzvah Gift Card!
Why it’s on the list:
Gift cards are the next best thing to money as a bar mitzvah gift.
If you feel too weird or awkward giving money, how about an Amazon gift card so the bar mitzvah boy can pick out whatever he wants?
Teens can find a world of possibilities at Amazon, from the latest video games, books, an Apple watch, music, and even shoes!
Whether he's into Van's or Crocs, he'll have fun shopping for all of the coolest styles!
Plus it’s hard to put gift cards in the bank, so he can use them immediatelyfor some fun.
From Reviews:
Pros:
- Amazon has everything they could want
- Can add whatever amount of money you want
- Easy and versatile
- Who doesn't love an Amazon Gift Card?
Cons:
- Ordered multiple cards and they came in one box without being labeled
Star of David bracelet
Why it’s on the list:
A Star of David piece of jewelry is a classic bar mitzvah gift.
This bracelet is a stylish and understated piece of jewelry, making it an ideal accessory for those who don’t usually wear jewelry.
The hypoallergenic and nickel-free materials make it safe for even the most sensitive skin, while its adjustable knot ensures a snug but comfortable fit, and the bracelet comes in its own natural cotton bag, perfect for gift giving.
From Reviews:
Pros:
- Able to leave on during showers and swimming with no problems
- Looks good get many compliments
- Great quality for the price
Cons:
- Wish the charm was a little bigger
Shofar
Why it’s on the list
We have given many shofars as bar and bat mitzvah gifts over the years and they have always been loved!
The Shofar is a uniquely beautiful and meaningful item that has been used since biblical times.
This genuine rams' horn Shofar is made using traditional techniques, combined with modern production methods, to ensure it meets the highest quality standards.
It's handmade, and also has a smooth interior which makes it easy to blow with loud tones and clear sounds.
In addition, each one is odor-free and completely clean after many rounds of sterilization in the factory.
Plus, it includes a free velvet drawstring bag for protection, as well as a shofar-blowing guide with instructions on how to properly care for it so you can guarantee years of use!
Bonus: it's Kosher certified and imported from Israel.
From Reviews:
Pros:
- Able to get a good sound out of it
- Gorgeous
- The velvet bag is well made
- The mouthpiece is smooth
Cons:
- Not odorless
- Smaller than expected
- Doesn't come with a stand
- Hard to make a sound at first
Mezuzah Necklace
Why it's on the list:
Giving a Jewish piece of jewelry is always a great bar mitzvah gift.
Some boys might not like to wear jewelry, but they could always carry just the charm in their pocket.
It's such a meaningful gift because it contains a removable glass-encased with The Shema prayer which expresses the essence of Judaism.
Although the scroll is not Kosher it still will give the bar mitzvah boy an everyday reminder of his faith and a feeling of protection.
Crafted from pure 925 sterling silver, the charm won't flake, peel or cause skin discoloration.
From Reviews:
Pros:
- Craftsmanship is great
- Very meaningful necklace
- Better than the picture
Cons:
- No extender included
- Does not stay closed
- The chain looks cheap
Tzedakah box
Why it's on the list:
Many Jewish families have a special box they use to collect money to then donate to charity, and he has been putting his coins into the box starting a young age.
Now that he is considered a Jewish adult, he can take responsibility for his own charitable donations.
This unique box is crafted to hold all the contributions with a secure, enameled wood construction and lock and key.
Showcasing the beautiful Jerusalem motif highlighted by gold accents on the sides, this box makes a stunning addition to any space.
The bold inscription written in Hebrew letters “Tzedakah” along the side serves as a reminder of charitable intentions and encourages you to give what you can.
From Reviews:
Pros:
- It's very sturdy and well-made, and the design is very clear and nice
- Beautiful and well made
Cons:
- Smaller than expected
Portable Wireless Speaker
Why it’s on the list:
It's not mandatory to give a bar mitzvah boy a traditional Jewish gift, and if he loves music this is also an appropriate gift to help him enjoy it wherever he goes.
It's small in size but big on sound is waterproof, and has up to 10 hours of playtime on a single charge.
And thanks to its clip-on carabiner, this speaker easily attaches to clothing, a backpack or a belt for hands-free listening.
For 70 years, JBL has brought music to life so you can't go wrong!
From Reviews:
Pros:
- So small but is so loud and durable.
- Great for hiking or adventuring, clipped to a backpack or a zipper on a ski jacket.
- This speaker is perfect! No issues at all and the battery lasts a long time.
Cons:
- The charging cord is short
- The speaker cover came off
- Not enough Bass
Duffell Bag
Why it’s on the list:
We've added another "non-Jewish" gift to the list. Just because the kid is Jewish doesn't mean he only wants Jewish stuff, and a duffle bag is not only a useful gift but something he might not have yet.
The Nike Brasilia Duffel Bag is a spacious black bag crafted with a reliable and strong material that can withstand any outdoor activity. This intelligently designed duffel is the perfect way to carry sports apparel and equipment, take to the gym, or even a weekend camping trip.
Whether the bar mitzvah boy is headed to practice or away for a weekend, there's no doubt his important items will fit into this reliable duffle bag.
From Reviews:
Pros:
- So much room with a lot of compartments
- Use for the gym and travel
- Daughter uses it as a 3 season athlete and it holds up great
- Great bag for college
Cons:
- Wish it was a bit bigger
- The bottom doesn’t have much support so it sags
- Came with a rip
Don't forget the greeting Card!
Why it’s on the list:
If you have decided to give a bar mitzvah gift (that isn't money,) you will need a greeting card to have with your gift.
Most likely you will be placing it on a gift table filled with many other gifts, and you don't want your gift to be lost in the shuffle and be anonymous.
Also, if you don’t live somewhere with a large Jewish population, you will have a difficult time finding a Bar Mitzvah card.
If you do get lucky and find one, it’s probably going to be the same one everyone else in your town will buy, so the bar mitzvah boy will have multiple!
From Reviews:
Pros:
- Top Quality
- Perfect Sentiment
- Great quality card stock and vibrant colors
Cons:
- Came bent
FAQ about bar mitzvahs
What is a bar mitzvah service?
A bar mitzvah is a coming-of-age ceremony for Jewish boys.
The event is usually held when the boy turns 13. As part of the celebration, the bar mitzvah boy reads from the Torah, a Jewish holy book written in Hebrew.
A lot of times, there is a fun party for family and friends. including food, music, and dancing.
What is the difference between a bar mitzvah and a bat mitzvah?
The difference between a bar mitzvah and a bat mitzvah is that bat mitzvahs are for girls and bar mitzvahs are for boys.
Traditionally, bat mitzvahs were not as common as bar mitzvahs because girls did not have the same religious responsibilities as boys.
However, in recent years, there has been an increasing number of bat mitzvahs celebrated around the world, and bat mitzvah girl is 12 or 13.
Do you have to give a bar mitzvah gift?
It is traditional to bring a gift to a bar mitzvah. If you are invited and not able to attend, it is still a lovely gesture to send a gift, money, or a gift card.
What is a popular gift for a bar mitzvah?
Money, gift cards, Judaica gifts, Jewish jewelry, sports memorabilia, or even a fun life experience. Sometimes the bar mitzvah boy will request donations for his favorite charity, instead of a gift.
How much money do you give for a bar mitzvah? 2023
Traditionally, the money amount is in increments of 18.
In Judaism, the number 18 symbolizes “chai,” Hebrew for “life.” Giving an amount that’s a multiple of 18 is a way of expressing a long and happy life to the bar mitzvah boy.
If you are attending as a peer depending on your budget $36 is an acceptable amount for a bar mitzvah gift.
What do you write on a bar mitzvah card?
On this special occasion, show him that you're incredibly proud of his achievement, by writing a heartfelt message – express your admiration for all that he's accomplished.
If you aren't that close to the bar mitzvah boy, the traditional phrase "Mazel Tov" would be a perfect sentiment, or if you feel silly saying that, you can just say Congratulations!
Do I bring the gift to the synagogue or to the party?
It is customary to bring bar mitzvah gifts to the party where there will most likely be a gift table when you walk in.
What is a shofar?
The Shofar, an ancient ram's-horn trumpet used by Jewish people in religious ceremonies and as a battle signal, has been sounded for thousands of years on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
During the month leading up to this holy day, it is blown every day except Shabbat.
Different sizes are available but all share one feature: they have a curved shape that allows them to be played like trumpets with four distinct sounds - tekiah, shevarim , teruah ,and tekiah gedolah that many associate with "crying out" or wailing.
The traditional blowing of the shofar serves not only as part of certain rituals around these annual holidays; its sound also encourages listeners to pause and realize their sins over the past year so true repentance can occur ahead before time runs out!
What is Tzedakah?
Tzedakah is Hebrew for "justice." It's the term used to describe the voluntary giving of donations to charity.
There are many reasons why people give tzedakah. Some people believe that it's their duty to help those who are less fortunate, while others believe that tzedakah is a way to receive blessings and rewards in the afterlife.
No matter what the motivation, tzedakah is a meaningful way to make a difference in someone else's life.
What is a mezuzah?
A mezuzah is a religious object placed on the doorposts of Jewish homes. It is a small parchment scroll on which handwritten verses from the Torah (the first five books of the Hebrew Bible).
The mezuzah is not just an ornament but serves as a reminder that God blesses and protects the inhabitants of the home.
The mezuzah has been mandated by Jewish law as a means of fulfilling the biblical commandment to affix "a sign upon your doorpost."
You're ready to shop!
So there you have it, our comprehensive guide to the best gifts for a bar mitzvah for every type of teenage boy out there.
We hope this was helpful and that you found some great bar mitzvah gift ideas.
Happy shopping!
Stacy