5 Things You Didn’t Know About Birthdays in Judaism

A Birthday Is Spiritually Powerful
The Talmud teaches that on a person’s birthday, their mazal (good fortune) is strong. The day itself, even the day of the week can shape someone’s personality and strengths.

It’s a Time for Reflection
While birthdays are often celebrated with fun and laughter, in Judaism they’re also a time to think. It’s a chance to stop and ask: Where am I in life? What have I done with my gifts and my time? How can I do better?

It’s a Day for Good Deeds
A birthday is a perfect time to bring more good into the world. Many people give extra charity, and if the birthday falls on a day the Torah is read, it’s common to be called up for an aliyah. If not, some do so on the Shabbat before.

Some Birthdays Are Especially Important
The Bar Mitzvah at age 13 is one of the most celebrated birthdays. It marks the time a boy becomes responsible for mitzvot. It’s usually celebrated with a joyful meal, and he can now join a minyan, be called to the Torah, and begin putting on tefillin.

Turning 60 Has a Unique Meaning
Reaching the age of 60 is seen as a special milestone. Many celebrate with a happy meal, as Jewish tradition holds that living past 60 means a person has passed the stage of certain spiritual risks, like karet (a spiritual cutoff).