Lifecycles

Seven Blessings | Ritual Component

By Lori Lefkovitz and Lenny Gordon

Recalls the concept of the Sheva Brachot which follow a wedding ceremony

Excerpted from Seder Brit Eloheha | Ritual Component

By Rabbi Jeremy Schwartz

Excerpt from an original babynaming ceremony in which the baby is welcomed into the covenant by perfuming her ears with myrtle.

Mikveh | Ritual Component

Some families immerse the newborn in a small mikveh, symbolic of the covenant.

A Ner Nishamah | Ritual Component

By Lori Lefkovitz and Lenny Gordon

Lori Lefkovitz and Lenny Gordon suggest lighting a candle, symbolic of the new soul born into the world. Can also be used like a yahrzeit candle to recall the departed soul for whom the baby is named. Also a covenantal symbol.

Tallit | Ritual Component

Some couples wrap the baby in a tallit, perhaps the one used as their chuppah, as a symbol of covenant. Others do so as a symbol of welcome.

Smelling Fragrant Spices | Ritual Component

From the Itim Institute

A symbolization of life, love, and renewal

Traditional Blessing for Entering the Baby into the Covenant | Prayer

With Hebrew, a traditional blessing

Anointing with Breast Milk | Ritual Component

By Alexandra Volin Avelin

Excerpted from an original babynaming ceremony in which the baby is welcomed into the covenant by anointing her with breast milk.