​Cantor Menachem Toren

Tradition

To Contact:

973-980-7777
​cantortoren@mohel.tv

The Hebrew word "brit" means circumcision, or "covenant." This biblical law is mentioned in Genesis 17:2. It refers to a pledge that God made to Abraham and his descendants, promising to bless him and make him prosper in return for his loyalty. The act of the circumcision sealed the covenant and stated, "and ye shall be circumcised in the flesh of your foreskin, and that will serve as a sign of the Covenant between Me and you." This early life cycle practice is a way of life for those of the Jewish religion. The Bible requires every son born to a Jewish woman to be circumcised on the 8th day following his birth. 

The Brit Milah is considered the most important commandment. As stated in the Talmud, circumcision comes before all other commandments in the Torah, and no changes from this biblical law are permitted. Throughout history, Jewish people have risked their lives for the freedom to perform this mitzvah.

"Mohel" is the Hebrew word for the person who cuts away the foreskin. He is the specialist who performs the procedure and who recites the prayers.

"Circumcision is of such importance that heaven and earth are held only by the fulfillment of that covenant."

"Circumcision is one of the commandments which, having been accepted with joy, are ever obeyed with joy and observed with steadfast loyalty."