Mazel tov
"Mazel tov" or "mazal tov" (Hebrew/Yiddish: , "mazal tov";"mazel tov"; lit. "good fortune") is a Jewish phrase used to express congratulations for a happy and significant occasion or event. Etymology and pronunciation. The expression comes from the Mishnaic Hebrew "mazzāl", meaning "constellation" or "destiny", which may be related to "nazal", meaning "to flow down". While the words "mazal" (or "mazel" in Yiddish; "luck" or "fortune") and "tov" ("good") are Hebrew in origin, the phrase is of Yiddish origin, and was later incorporated into Modern Hebrew. The Yiddish pronunciation of "mazel" has the stress on the first syllable, the  modern Hebrew word "mazal" has the stress on the last syllable, as is standard in modern Hebrew. The phrase "mazel tov" is recorded as entering into American English from Yiddish in 1862, pronounced . The word "mazel" was lent to a number of European languages, meaning "luck", such as: German, as "Massel"; Hungarian, as "mázli"; Dutch, as "mazzel" and the verb "mazzelen" ("to be lucky"). The word "tov" also entered Dutch as "tof/toffe" ("nice" or "great"). Usage. "Mazel tov" is literally translated as "good luck" in its meaning as a description, not a wish. The implicit meaning is "good luck  has occurred" or "your fortune has been good" and the expression is an acknowledgement of that fact. It is similar in usage to the word "congratulations!" and conveys roughly, "I am pleased this good thing has happened to you!" A common Hebrew phrase for "wishing" "good luck", is "b'hatzlacha" (), literally meaning "with success". Throughout the Jewish world, including the diaspora, "mazel tov!" is a common Jewish expression at events such as a bar or bat mitzvah or a wedding. For example, at a Jewish wedding, it is shouted by the couple's friends and family after the ceremonial breaking of  the glass. In Israel, the phrase is used for all sorts of happy occasions, such a new driver's license, a birthday, or getting a new job.