The Life of Jesus in Harmony | Index

circumcision

Circumcised

Heb. "milah" (to cut around)

Gr. "peritome"

The cutting away of the foreskin was the sign of the covenant that daily reminded man of God's promise to Abraham (Gen 12, 15, etc.)

The ceremony of circumcision consisted in cutting away the foreskin, i.e., the hood or fold of skin covering the head of the male organ. This is generally done by means of a sharp knife, but in more primitive times sharp stones were used (Ex 4:25; Josh 5:2, "flint knives").

As a rule this act was performed by the father <Gen. 17:23>, although it might be done by any Israelite, and, if necessary, women as well <Exo. 4:25>, but never by a Gentile. In later times the operation was, in the case of adults, performed by a doctor.

The Jews of the present day entrust it to a person called a mohel appointed especially for the purpose. In later times the naming of the child accompanied the act of circumcision (Lk 1:59).