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Circumcision |
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Circumcision or Brith as it is known in Hebrew consists of the removal of part or all of
the foreskin which covers the glands of the penis. The Jewish tradition of circumcision
stems from the Torah which states "every male among you shall be circumcised"
(Genesis 17:11-12). A Jewish baby boy is circumcised when he is eight days old by a Mohel.
A Mohel has been specifically trained to perform the circumcision, and also receives
rabbinic recognition. After the procedure is completed the Mohel will say a benediction
over the wine and a second benediction praising God. At this time the Mohel also says a
prayer for the child's welfare and announces the child's Hebrew name.
It is customary for the birth to be an occasion for the baby to be welcomed into his
family and extended family. Today Jewish babies are not the only ones who are circumcised.
Many doctors remove the foreskin at birth for hygienic reasons.
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