initiation rites

Initiation rites are ceremonies or rituals that mark a person's transition from one stage of life to another, often in cultures and societies around the world. These rites often signify a major change, such as moving from childhood to adulthood, and can involve various activities, teachings, or tests. They may include communal celebrations, symbolic acts, and the imparting of knowledge. Initiation rites serve to strengthen social bonds, pass cultural values, and provide individuals with a sense of identity and belonging within a community. Examples include bar and bat mitzvahs in Judaism, vision quests in some Indigenous cultures, and graduation ceremonies.