B’Sha’a Tova

“Mazal Tov!” This Jewish expression has, without question, crossed the societal divide and is a well-known phrase throughout the western world. And while many popular entertainers and media figures may mispronounce it, it is no longer considered a foreign phrase to Americans.

While “Mazal Tov” is used in lieu of congratulations, it is most accurately translated as “good fortune.” But the Jewish faith does not believe that fickle fortune, otherwise known as “fate” or “destiny,” rules the lives of Jews, and so this too is an inaccurate translation. Rather, Mazal Tov is a means of declaring that God has brought good fortune upon a person. (For more see Rabbi Buchwald’s comments on parashat Balak 5768)

Mazal Tov has come to be used as a means of congratulations for virtually every event–from getting married to getting a raise. For some situations, however, there is a far more appropriate term: “B’sha’a Tova,” which figuratively means “in a propitious time.”

What is the true meaning of the term “B’sha’a Tova”? In actuality, it is a blessing calling for the good tidings to come to a fortuitous conclusion. Most often it is said to an expectant mother, although it can be applied to any good news that has not yet come to a full conclusion, such as an engagement.

While B’sha’a Tova could be seen simply as a blessing that the unborn child will be born healthy or that a couple will have a happy marriage, it is also an indirect reminder of the Talmudic phrase: “gam zoo l’tova,” this too is for the good. A broken engagement, for example, can be an emotionally crushing event…but it is also one of the challenges that those involved must overcome in order to properly fulfill their purpose in this world.

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