Brit Milah FAQ

Circumcision is an ancient sign of identity for Jewish males, which has been practised throughout the generations. Liberal Judaism has always recognised the importance of circumcision as a symbol of the covenant and a mark of Jewish identity. However, it also accepts that there are grounds for questioning the practice, and that some parents choose not to circumcise their sons for reasons of conscience

The ceremony is performed by a Mohel, who has been specially trained in the traditional Jewish way of performing the procedure. The Mohel (the ritual circumciser) will gather everyone together and explain the significance of the Brit. The baby will then be carried in to the room by his Kvaterin (or Godmother) and handed to his Kvater (or Godfather), whilst the opening prayers are said. The baby is then passed to the Sandek, who will hold him on his lap whilst the circumcision is performed.
Usually the Sandek has a pillow on his lap, covered by a towel and will sit opposite to the Mohel on two dining room chairs (without arms). A small table next to the chairs for the Mohel’s instruments and the kiddush wine would be useful.
The circumcision usually takes two or three minutes only, including the time to put a small dressing on. After the circumcision, further prayers are said, including a blessing over wine and the naming of the baby.

The choice of who does what, is that of the baby’s parents.
Traditionally, the Sandek is a Jewish male, often a grandfather or uncle of the baby (not the father).

Traditionally, only men attend the ceremony. Progressive communities would encourage all to be present regardless of gender, but this would be an individual’s choice.
Similarly, mums and dads need to choose if they stay in the room or leave. Most who stay feel that the reality was less distressing than their imagination and were glad that they had stayed.

Circumcision is a straightforward operation undertaken using a well proven and established method. Complication rates are low when compared to other surgical procedures and when they do occur can be sorted out promptly with minimal distress to the child or his parents
In accordance with General Medical Council Guidelines doctors undertaking male circumcisions are now required to gain written consent from the baby’s parents for the procedure. The form confirms that the parents have been informed of the pros and cons of the procedure and appropriate anaesthetic and analgesic methods. Also, that the parents have been made aware of the potential complications of bleeding, infection and a cosmetically unacceptable outcome, including an estimate of their likelihood and consequences.
Circumcision is a small operation and what your son needs most after the operation from you are lots of cuddles and tender loving care. Keep him well fed, well winded and all should be well.

You should speak to your rabbi and a Liberal Jewish mohel, such as Dr Joshua Plaut or Mr Tom Rosenbaum (details below).

Dr Joshua Plaut
07956 144 259
www.joshplaut.co.uk
joshplaut@doctors.org.uk

Mr Tom Rosenbaum
07711 956 182
rosenbaum.tom@gmail.com