Becoming a “bat mitzvah” means that you have reached the age of Jewish maturity. You are now responsible for your own religious activity. One way many Jewish girls mark this occasion is by taking on a learning project, either alone, or with their mothers/fathers or older sisters/brothers as a bonding experience.

Talmud is a wonderful place to focus your efforts. Learning Talmud is challenging (in a good way!), will teach you to question critically and debate, and will immerse you in fundamental Jewish knowledge.

There are many masechtot (tractates) to choose from, dealing with topics ranging from civil law and marriage to Shabbat and holidays. You can decide what appeals most to you – learning about more universal human themes or specific Jewish practice. Get started here!