Circumcision, Bar and Bat Mitzvah

Overview

Recall questions on brit milah, the mohel and sandek and objections to infant circumcision, how girls are welcomed into the covenant, and the meaning and celebration of bar and bat mitzvah.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   Define brit milah.

   Model answer

   The covenant of circumcision, performed on a Jewish boy.

2. 2

   When is brit milah performed?

   Model answer

   On the eighth day after birth, unless the child's health requires a delay.

3. 3

   With which biblical figure did the covenant of circumcision begin?

   Model answer

   Abraham, who was commanded to circumcise himself and the males of his household.

4. 4

   Explain the role of the mohel.

   Model answer

   The trained practitioner who performs the circumcision.

5. 5

   Explain the role of the sandek.

   Model answer

   The person honoured with holding the child during the ceremony.

6. 6

   Why is brit milah kept by many Jews who observe little else?

   Model answer

   It is regarded as the sign of belonging to the covenant and to the Jewish people, so it carries weight far beyond ordinary observance.

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