יום הולדת שמח!
yom hoo-LEH-det sah-MEH-ach
"Happy birthday!" — the standard Hebrew phrase, understood everywhere Hebrew is spoken.
Yom means "day," huledet means "birth," and sameach means "happy." Together: "happy day of birth."
More Ways to Say It
Hebrew birthday culture includes one especially well-known traditional blessing that goes beyond the standard phrase.
A Cultural Note Worth Knowing
One phrase in particular is worth understanding beyond its literal translation.
"Until 120"
This blessing (ad meah ve'esrim) is used widely in Jewish communities worldwide, including among people who don't speak Hebrew fluently.
Mazal Tov vs. Birthday Wishes
Mazal tov is general congratulations, not specifically "happy birthday" — it's often added on top of, not instead of, Yom Huledet Sameach.
Diaspora Use
Both phrases are commonly used in Jewish communities outside Israel, not just among Hebrew speakers.
A Complete Birthday Message in Hebrew
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "ad meah ve'esrim" mean and why is it said?
It means "until 120" and refers to the age Moses is said to have lived to in the Torah — it's a traditional blessing wishing someone a long, full life.
Is "Mazal Tov" the same as happy birthday?
No — it's a general "congratulations," used for many occasions (birthdays, weddings, achievements). It's often said alongside birthday wishes, not instead of them.
Does the phrase change based on who you're speaking to?
The core phrase Yom Huledet Sameach doesn't change, but some traditional blessings have separate masculine and feminine forms.