Naches is Yiddish for pride or joy in the accomplishment of one’s children. For many, family is at the root of the Jewish experience, and naches is often the ultimate expression of raising the next generation with meaning and purpose, while feeling (appropriate) pride at achieving such.
This is not a fleeting moment of pride associated with getting into a good school, crushing the long ball in a high school game, or a stellar musical recital. Etymologically, naches means calm, tranquility, or peace, from the verb “nach,” meaning to rest or put down. For what is better than the peace of mind at one’s own accomplishments than to experience the deep and truly heartfelt bliss that all your efforts have secured not simply a good life for you, but for those you care most deeply about.