Brit Milah: Celebrating the Birth of a Boy

The miracle of birth for a baby boy traditionally takes place as the boy enters into the Jewish covenant with God and is given his Hebrew name. The ceremony of Brit Milah (literally “Covenant of Circumcision”) most often takes place either in the family’s home or at another location appropriate for the family. Brit Milah takes place on the 8th day of the baby’s life, unless there are any health reasons that would cause a delay. The Brit Milah is a ceremony performed by a “mohel” – someone specifically trained to perform the necessary medical procedure and offer the appropriate blessings. Many families also ask one of our rabbis to work with them and be present at the “bris” to help make the ceremony even more special for them.

It is during the ceremony of Brit Milah that baby boys officially receive their Hebrew name – one chosen by a parent or parents.

If you would like the name of a mohel with whom to work or have any questions about Brit Milah or a Naming Ceremony for a boy, please feel free to contact either Rabbi Perlman (jperlman@tbsneedham.org) or Rabbi Markley (tmarkley@tbsneedham.org).