When is Brit Milah Performed?

What is Brit Milah?

Brit Milah, also known as circumcision, is the first mitzvah commanded to the Jewish people and Avraham in the Torah. As stated, “זֹאת בְּרִיתִי אֲשֶׁר תִּשְׁמְרוּ בֵּינִי וּבֵינֵיכֶם וּבֵין זַרְעֲךָ אַחֲרֶיךָ: הִמּוֹל לָכֶם כָּל זָכָר” (בראשית י”ז:י’). This mitzvah is reiterated, “וּבַיּוֹם הַשְּׁמִינִי יִמּוֹל בְּשַׂר עָרְלָתוֹ” (ויקרא י”ב:ג’). It is a significant mitzvah, accompanied by a religious Jewish ceremony performed on the eighth day of a newborn baby boy, symbolizing his entering covenant with God according to Jewish tradition. The ceremony involves prayers, songs, and ancient blessings, marking an important and central event in the life of the child and his family.

Importance in Jewish Culture

Brit Milah is not only a physical act but an ancient tradition performed according to Jewish law, marking Jewish identity through generations. The “Sefer HaChinuch” notes that it differentiates Jews physically and spiritually from other nations. It is a mitzvah joyfully accepted by the Jewish people and remains so today. The ceremony connects the child to the heritage of Abraham, who received the mitzvah as a covenant between him and God. This covenant represents the transition from personal to communal identity and is a binding agreement between the child and his people and religion. It is greater than other positive commandments in the Torah, as it includes the aspect of “karet” (excision). Additionally, the term “covenant” is mentioned 13 times in the circumcision portion of the Torah, emphasizing its significance. Abraham was not considered complete until he was circumcised, and through this mitzvah, he was promised the land of Israel.

General Timing Rules

Brit Milah is performed on the eighth day (not at night) of the child’s life, counting from the Jewish day of birth. This timing is an integral part of the religious intent and is based on Torah verses specifying the eighth day. In Judaism, a day begins at sunset and lasts until the next sunset.

Exceptions to the Rule

Brit Milah may be postponed due to:

• Health issues: such as jaundice, fever, a weakened body, inflammation, or any other illness. If the baby is not in good health as assessed by a doctor and the mohel, the circumcision is delayed until the baby recovers.
• Timing and Shabbat: Certain situations on Shabbat require postponement, such as a cesarean section or uncertain birth timing, like during twilight. The circumcision is then postponed to Sunday, as circumcision on Shabbat is only allowed if it’s definitely the eighth day. Cases involving assisted reproduction might also require postponement until Sunday. Consult “Shulchan Aruch” יורה דעה סימן רס”ו for more details, and seek rabbinic guidance with any questions or with regards to a non-regular birth.