Berit Milah literally means “ Covenant of Circumcision”. The tradition began as a covenant between God and Abraham, who is considered to be the first Jew.
Abraham circumcised himself and all of his offspring as a physical representation that they would forever be devoted to God. In return God promised Abraham that he would become exceedingly fertile and become the “father of a multitude of nations”. Following the birth of Isaac, when Abraham was 99 years old, Abraham circumcised Isaac when he was eight days old. In return for his faithfulness, God also promised Abraham that his descendants would become a great nation and inherit the land of Canaan for eternity.
The ceremony that accompanies the bris incorporates the elements of its history, customs and Jewish laws. This rich tradition should be celebrated in the presence of family and friends and special honors are given to loved ones. My goal is for each bris to be a beautiful and enlightening experience for the family and guests who are present.