Dear Rabbi Joshua,
I’ve always been curious about the traditions of Judaism, and I hope you can shed some light on a particular practice that I’ve heard about but don’t fully understand. Why do Jews circumcise? I’m interested in the religious significance of this ritual.
Warm regards,
Michael Anderson

The Covenant of Circumcision

Dear Michael,

Thank you for your thoughtful question. Circumcision, known in Hebrew as Brit Milah (ברית מילה), is one of the oldest practices in Judaism and is rich with spiritual significance and religious obligation. It is a commandment given by God to Abraham, the patriarch of the Jewish people, as a sign of an everlasting covenant between God and Israel (Genesis 17:10-14).

Brit Milah in the Torah

The practice is rooted in the Torah, where in Genesis 17:10-14, God commands Abraham: “This is My covenant, which you shall keep, between Me and you and your offspring after you: Every male among you shall be circumcised. … Thus shall My covenant be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant.” The act of circumcision is performed on the eighth day of a Jewish male’s life, barring any health issues that might delay the ceremony.

Physical and Spiritual Significance

Circumcision symbolizes several core concepts within Judaism:

• Identity: It is a physical mark of a Jewish male’s identity as part of the covenant with God.
• Connection: It represents a Jew’s connection to their ancestors and to the divine commandments.
• Commitment: Brit Milah is seen as a commitment to Jewish law (Halacha) and spirituality.
• Purification: The removal of the foreskin is sometimes seen as a symbolic act of purification, enhancing spiritual clarity and dedication.

Brit Milah Throughout Jewish History

Throughout centuries, Jews have observed this commandment even under the threat of persecution. It is one of the fundamental mitzvot (commandments) that has sustained the Jewish people and is a rite of passage for Jewish newborns, introducing them to their Jewish faith and community responsibilities.

The Ceremony of Brit Milah

The ceremony itself involves the circumcision and is typically followed by a celebratory meal, called a seudat mitzvah. A mohel, who is trained in both the surgical aspects and the Jewish laws pertaining to circumcision, performs the Brit Milah. The ceremony is imbued with prayers and blessings, emphasizing the joy and spiritual significance of entering the covenant.

Conclusion

Michael, Brit Milah is more than a physical act; it is a profound spiritual journey that begins at the dawn of a Jewish male’s life. It connects the physical body with a soul’s divine purpose, anchoring a Jewish child to his ancestors and to a future of living by the principles and teachings of Judaism.

May your pursuit of understanding lead you to deeper connections with the traditions and values that enrich our world.

With blessings,
Rabbi Joshua

Dear Rabbi Joshua,

My name is Michael, and I’ve recently observed a curious practice among Hasidic Jews in my neighborhood. I’ve noticed that many carry plastic bags, especially on Saturdays. Could you please explain the significance of this practice? It intrigues me, and I wish to understand more about this tradition.

Sincerely,
Michael

The Concept of an Eruv and Shabbat Observance

Dear Michael,

Thank you for your thoughtful question. The practice you’ve observed, where Hasidic Jews carry plastic bags, especially on Shabbat (the Jewish Sabbath), is closely linked to the observance of Jewish law and the concept of an eruv.

In Judaism, Shabbat is a day of rest, which includes refraining from various forms of work. One of the 39 prohibited activities on Shabbat is carrying objects in the public domain. This prohibition stems from the ancient work of transferring objects between domains, which was integral to the construction of the Tabernacle, as outlined in the Torah.

What is an Eruv?

An eruv is a symbolic boundary that encloses a community area. By surrounding a neighborhood with an unbroken line, often using existing structures and adding poles and wires when necessary, the area within is considered a single private domain. This concept, deeply rooted in Talmudic law, specifically in the tractate of Eruvin, allows observant Jews to carry objects within this area during Shabbat.

Role of Plastic Bags

The plastic bags you see are a practical adaptation of this law. Within an eruv, carrying is permitted, so items like prayer books, bottles of wine for Shabbat meals, or even children’s necessities can be transported in these bags. In communities without an eruv, or for those who are stringent and do not rely on an eruv, you will not observe this practice.

Significance Beyond the Practical

While this practice is primarily practical, it also holds deeper significance. It represents a commitment to observing the Sabbath while adapting to modern life. The existence of an eruv and the use of these bags signify a community’s dedication to both uphold the Sabbath laws and ensure that community life is vibrant and fulfilling.

Conclusion

Michael, your observation touches on a fundamental aspect of Jewish life: the balance between tradition and contemporary living. The use of plastic bags within an eruv is a small yet profound example of how Jewish law adapts and thrives in modern society, ensuring that the sanctity of Shabbat is maintained.

If you have further questions or curiosities about Jewish customs, feel free to reach out. It’s always a pleasure to share the richness of our tradition.

Shalom,

Rabbi Joshua