“Mazel tov” is the congratulatory phrase commonly said at a Jewish bar or bat mitzvah.
The expression comes from Hebrew and Jewish Aramaic words associated with mazal, meaning a constellation or astrological influence, and tov, meaning good. In modern usage, mazel tov means “good luck” in a literal-looking translation but functions more accurately as “congratulations” or “may good fortune continue.”
Guests may say it after the celebrant completes a Torah reading, delivers a speech, or participates in the ceremony. It is also widely used for weddings, births, graduations, and other happy occasions in Jewish communities.
A common mistake is to say mazel tov before an anticipated event. Traditional usage generally congratulates someone after the good event has happened. “Yasher koach,” another Hebrew expression, praises strength or accomplishment and is often said after a Torah honor, but it is not the standard general congratulation.