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Top Document: soc.culture.jewish FAQ: Jewish Childrearing Related Questions (12/12) Previous Document: Question 21.1.2: Entering the Covenant: Why are Jewish boys circumcised? Next Document: Question 21.1.4: Entering the Covenant: When is the circumcision done? See reader questions & answers on this topic! - Help others by sharing your knowledge
Answer:
Although some modern Reform Jews use medical doctors to perform the
circumcision, this is not the traditional method. Traditionally, the
male infants are circumcised in the home or the shul on the eighth day
after birth, surrounded by family and friends, and held by the sandek
(an adult being honored by the parents, often a grandfather). The
infant is given a little wine, and the ritual is performed by a
specially trained Mohel, whose sole function is to perform
circumcisions.
Traditionally, the father is supposed to perform the Brit. As most
fathers do not have the appropriate training, a Mohel performs the
Brit. It is customary, that if possible, a Mohel will perform his
first Brit on his own son - under the supervision of an experienced
accredited Mohel (his teacher).
Note that Mohelim are not unique to the more traditional Orthodox
movement. The Reform and Conservative movements also train and
accredit Mohelim; often, the Mohel is a practicing M.D. (For example,
Dr. Samuel Kunin (a Reform Mohel in Los Angeles CA) and Dr. Robert
Lewis (a Conservative Mohel in Columbus OH) are practicing
urologists).
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Last Update March 27 2014 @ 02:11 PM
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