Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Avraham circumcise Yitzchak at eight days old?
A: Avraham circumcised Yitzchak at eight days old because that is the mitzvah (commandment) given by Hashem in the Torah (Genesis 17:12). This is the proper time for a Jewish boy's brit milah (circumcision), as it demonstrates obedience to Hashem's commandment and the covenant between Hashem and the Jewish people.
Q: What is the significance of brit milah (circumcision) in Judaism?
A: Brit milah is one of the most important mitzvot in Judaism, representing the eternal covenant between Hashem and the Jewish people. The Rambam (Maimonides) explains that it is a physical sign of our spiritual commitment to Hashem. The Talmud (Nedarim 32a) also teaches that Avraham was only considered complete after performing this mitzvah.
Q: Why is the brit milah performed specifically on the eighth day?
A: The Torah specifies the eighth day for brit milah (Leviticus 12:3). According to Rashi and the Midrash, this timing allows the baby to experience one Shabbat before the circumcision, showing that the mitzvah is even greater than Shabbat (since it overrides Shabbat laws when necessary). The number eight also symbolizes going beyond nature, as seven represents the natural order (like seven days of creation).
Q: How does this verse relate to Jewish practice today?
A: This verse establishes the foundation for the ongoing practice of brit milah in Jewish tradition. Today, just as Avraham did with Yitzchak, Jewish parents circumcise their sons on the eighth day (barring health concerns), continuing this eternal covenant. The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 260:1) codifies this as halacha (Jewish law).
Q: What lesson can we learn from Avraham performing the brit milah on Yitzchak?
A: We learn from Avraham the importance of fulfilling mitzvot with precision and devotion. Despite being 100 years old when Yitzchak was born, Avraham didn't delay the brit milah even for a day. The Midrash teaches that his immediate obedience demonstrated complete faith in Hashem. This teaches us to perform mitzvot with enthusiasm and without hesitation.
The Mitzvah of Brit Milah for Yitzchak
The verse (Bereishit 21:4) describes Avraham Avinu fulfilling the commandment of brit milah (circumcision) for his son Yitzchak at eight days old, as Hashem had commanded him. This act demonstrates Avraham's unwavering commitment to divine commandments, even after the immense test of the Akeidah (binding of Yitzchak) that would follow later in the parsha.
Significance of the Eighth Day
Rashi explains that the timing of the brit on the eighth day follows the same pattern established earlier with Avraham himself (Bereishit 17:12), establishing this as the proper time for all future generations. The Talmud (Shabbat 135a) discusses why specifically the eighth day:
Avraham as Model of Obedience
The Rambam (Hilchot Milah 3:1) emphasizes that Avraham performed this mitzvah exactly as commanded, serving as a model for all Jewish fathers. The phrase "ka'asher tzivah oto Elokim" (as God had commanded him) appears only regarding Yitzchak's brit, highlighting:
Contrast with Yishmael's Brit
The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 55:4) notes that while Yishmael was circumcised at age 13 (Bereishit 17:25), Yitzchak's brit was at eight days, showing: