The Story of Brit Milah

The religious circumcision, or brit milah, is the oldest ritual of the Jewish people.  It serves as a sign of the commitment parents make to give their son a Jewish upbringing, and it is a symbol marking the relationship between G-d and the Jewish people.  In the Torah, this tradition is discussed in Genesis, Chapter 17.  G-d makes many promises to Abraham and Sarah and all of their generations to follow.  In exchange, G-d commands that every son be circumcised on the eighth day of life.

Jewish text and thinkers provide various meanings to help explain the covenant of circumcision.  One interpretation is that completing the covenant of circumcision is a way to become whole (or perfect) before G-d by removing “the blemish” of the foreskin.  According to Kabbalah, circumcision allows a man to enter into and become attached to the name of G-d, providing a doorway to enlightenment and union with G-d.  For us as Jews, it is also a way to honor tradition and Jewish continuity.