Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the brit milah (circumcision) performed on the eighth day?
A: The Torah commands that brit milah be performed on the eighth day (Leviticus 12:3). According to Rashi and the Talmud (Niddah 31b), this timing ensures that the baby has experienced one Shabbat before the circumcision, symbolizing that the mitzvah is even greater than Shabbat (since it overrides Shabbat restrictions if the eighth day falls on Shabbat). Additionally, Rambam explains that waiting eight days ensures the child is strong enough for the procedure.
Q: What is the significance of brit milah (circumcision) in Judaism?
A: Brit milah is one of the most fundamental commandments in Judaism, representing the covenant between G-d and the Jewish people, as established with Abraham (Genesis 17:10-14). The Talmud (Shabbat 137b) teaches that circumcision is so important that it is one of the few mitzvot for which Jews have given their lives throughout history. It symbolizes Jewish identity, commitment to Torah, and spiritual refinement.
Q: Can brit milah be delayed if the baby is not healthy?
A: Yes, the health of the child takes priority. The Talmud (Yevamot 71b) and Rambam (Hilchot Milah 1:18) rule that if a baby is ill or weak, the circumcision must be postponed until a doctor confirms he is healthy enough. The mitzvah is only performed on the eighth day if the child is in good condition, as preserving life (pikuach nefesh) overrides almost all commandments.
Q: Who performs the brit milah, and what are the requirements?
A: A brit milah is performed by a mohel, a trained and observant Jew knowledgeable in Jewish law and surgical procedure. The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 264:1) states that the mohel must be G-d-fearing and skilled to ensure a safe and halachically valid circumcision. Ideally, the father should arrange the mitzvah, but if he cannot, a beit din (Jewish court) ensures it is done.
Q: What is the spiritual meaning behind removing the foreskin in brit milah?
A: Jewish tradition (as explained in Midrash Tanchuma, Tazria 5) teaches that the foreskin represents spiritual blockage and impurity. Removing it symbolizes refining the physical body to serve G-d wholly. The Zohar teaches that circumcision completes the soul’s connection to holiness. Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 3:49) also describes it as a physical sign of the eternal covenant between G-d and the Jewish people.
The Eighth Day for Circumcision
The verse states: "וּבַיּוֹם הַשְּׁמִינִי יִמּוֹל בְּשַׂר עָרְלָתוֹ" (Vayikra 12:3), establishing that a Jewish male child must be circumcised on the eighth day of his life. This mitzvah is foundational in Judaism, as it represents the covenant between Hashem and the Jewish people, beginning with Avraham Avinu (Bereishit 17:10-14).
Significance of the Eighth Day
Rashi (Vayikra 12:3) explains that the Torah specifies the eighth day to teach that the mitzvah applies even if it falls on Shabbat, overriding Shabbat prohibitions when necessary. The Talmud (Shabbat 132a) derives this from the juxtaposition of "שְּׁמִינִי" (eighth day) with "יִמּוֹל" (shall be circumcised), indicating urgency.
The Covenant of Milah
The Zohar (Tazria 43b) emphasizes that circumcision on the eighth day draws down divine protection and sanctity, as the number eight represents transcendence beyond nature (symbolized by seven). The "בְּשַׂר עָרְלָתוֹ" (flesh of his foreskin) represents the removal of physical and spiritual barriers to holiness (Malbim, Vayikra 12:3).
Halachic Considerations
The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 262:1) rules that the mitzvah is performed during daylight hours of the eighth day, barring medical concerns. If delayed, the obligation remains, but the unique sanctity of the eighth day is lost (Mishnah Berurah, Shaar HaTziyun 331:65).