Brit Milah (Bris)
The Brit Milah—commonly called a bris—is among the most fundamental commandments in Judaism. It is the physical sign of the eternal covenant between God and the Jewish people, first commanded to Abraham over 3,700 years ago.
Biblical Origins
The commandment for Brit Milah appears in Genesis 17: "This is My covenant which you shall keep between Me and you and your descendants after you—every male among you shall be circumcised." God commanded Abraham to circumcise himself at age 99, his son Ishmael, and all the males of his household. From that day forward, circumcision on the eighth day has been the sign of the Jewish covenant.
The Talmud records that Brit Milah is so important that it overrides Shabbat—if the eighth day falls on Saturday, the Brit is performed nonetheless.
The Ceremony
The Brit Milah typically takes place in the morning. Family, friends, and the community gather. Key participants include:
- Mohel — the trained circumcisor who performs the procedure
- Sandak — the honored individual who holds the baby during the circumcision
- Kvater/Kvaterin — the couple who carries the baby into the room (an honor traditionally offered to couples hoping for children)
- Elijah's Chair (Kisei shel Eliyahu) — a symbolic chair set aside for the prophet Elijah, guardian of the Jewish covenant
The mohel recites blessings, performs the circumcision (milah), reveals the wound (priah), and draws a drop of blood (metzitzah). The father recites a blessing fulfilling his obligation. The rabbi or leader then recites blessings over wine and announces the baby's Hebrew name.
After the Ceremony
A festive meal (seudat mitzvah) follows the Brit. Bentching (Grace After Meals) includes special insertions blessing the parents, the child, and Elijah the Prophet. Guests customarily wish the family "Mazel Tov!" and pray that the child grow to Torah, the marriage canopy (chuppah), and good deeds (ma'asim tovim).
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does Brit Milah mean?
- Brit Milah means 'Covenant of Circumcision' in Hebrew. It is the physical sign of the covenant (brit) between God and the Jewish people established with Abraham.
- When is a Brit Milah performed?
- The Brit Milah is performed on the eighth day of the boy's life, even if that day falls on Shabbat or Yom Kippur. It may be postponed only if the baby has a health condition.
- Who performs the Brit Milah?
- A mohel—a trained specialist in Jewish law and the surgical procedure—performs the circumcision. The father technically fulfills the commandment by appointing the mohel as his agent.
- What is the role of the sandak?
- The sandak holds the baby during the circumcision. It is considered a great honor, often given to a grandfather or revered community elder.
- Is a minyan required?
- A minyan (quorum of ten) is customary but not strictly required for a Brit Milah.