Medical Benefits For Circumcised Males
Circumcision has long been a central practice in Judaism, a ritual that is seen to bring them spiritually closer to God and to their people. But throughout the course of Judaism’s history, circumcision has also brought about a variety of physical and medical benefits for circumcised males. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, circumcision can help to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, HIV, human papillomavirus, and penile cancer. It is also believed to lower the chance of other sexually transmitted infections.
These medical benefits have been shown to be especially advantageous in the men circumcised as infants and those circumcised at a young age. A retrospective study found that men who had been circumcised before the age of eight were less likely to contract urinary tract infections and HIV or pass on the human papillomavirus to a partner. However, circumcision is generally not recommended for boys aged two and under, as the risks of the procedure increase with younger age.
While the medical benefits of circumcision are seen as persuasive, they are not necessarily the main reasoning behind the practice in Judaism. Otherbenefits have been suggested to be of greater importance, including psychological and spiritual concerns. Many Jews believe that circumcision binds men to their people and symbolizes the covenant between them and God.
History Of Circumcision in Judaism
Circumcision plays an important role in the Jewish faith, with records of the practice dating back more than three thousand years. In Genesis, Abraham is commanded by God to circumcise himself and all males in his household as part of his covenant with God. Over the years, circumcision has been regarded as a sign of membership in the Jewish nation, and it is still regarded as an important rite of passage for young boys in the community.
In addition to being a religious sign, circumcision has also been seen as a protective measure for health benefits. Throughout history, Jewish communities have focused on the importance of hygiene, and circumcision offers the bonus advantage of reducing hygiene-related illnesses. In the case of covenant circumcision, the practice was seen as doubly important – not only offering protection against illnesses but also a connection to God.
In the 20th century, circumcision was seen as a way to spread awareness of health and hygiene, leading some Jewish communities to encourage the practice more widely. The Jewish community also saw it as a way to ensure that their circumcised children would be more accepted in mainstream society. Although circumcision is increasingly seen as a personal choice in Jewish communities today, it is still viewed as an important symbol in Judaism.
Controversy and Debate
Circumcision is a controversial issue, and one that has sparked much debate in recent decades. On one hand, members of the Jewish community believe that circumcision is an important part of their heritage and that it should be preserved. On the other hand, there are those who argue that circumcision is cruel and unnecessary, and should not be done without consent. It is important to note that Jewish law does not require that boys be circumcised before the age of eight, meaning that the choice is ultimately up to the parents.
The debate has also raised questions about the medical benefits of circumcision, with some arguing that the procedure offers little to no protection against illness or infection. However, the majority of medical studies have found possible benefits of circumcision, and have suggested that circumcised males are less likely to contract urinary tract infections, HIV, and other sexually transmitted infections.
At the same time, it is important to acknowledge that there are potential risks associated with circumcision, including scarring, bleeding, pain, and infection. It is also important to note that circumcision is not a guarantee of protection against infection or illness, and proper hygiene and sexual practices should be observed regardless.
Circumcision Practices in Jewish Communities Today
Today, circumcision remains an important part of Jewish life and is generally seen as a positive practice. Although there is a growing consensus that the choice of circumcision should be left up to each individual, many Jewish parents still choose to have their sons circumcised shortly after birth. It is also not unusual to see ceremonies and celebrations around the event, as Jewish communities emphasize the importance of the practice.
It is also worth mentioning that there is a growing trend towards male circumcision in populations that do not practice Judaism. Studies have found that circumcision helps reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections, making the procedure an attractive option for some. However, it is important to consider the potential risks and make an informed decision when deciding whether or not to circumcise a baby.
Ritual Procedure of Circumcision in Judaism
The ritual procedure of circumcision in Judaism is known as brit milah, which is the Hebrew phrase for “covenant of circumcision”. In a brit milah, a mohel (Jewish ritual circumciser) performs the ritual of snipping the foreskin of the male infant’s penis. The procedure is carried out in front of a minyan (a quorum of ten men or more) with a blessing being spoken by the father or another representative.
A special prayer shawl known as a tallit is placed over the baby’s head and a sheet is held up for privacy as the procedure is performed. The Talmud states that circumcision should be done on the eighth day of life, though other medical risks have caused this time to be adjusted in more modern times. It is also traditionally seen as a time of celebration and joy, in which food and drinks are served and special prayers are recited.
Spiritual and Psychological Effects of Circumcision
While the majority of modern Jews emphasize the health benefits of circumcision, many traditional Jews still view the practice as a spiritual and psychological act. In many cases, circumcision is seen to bring the child and his family closer to the greater Jewish nation, instilling in him a sense of pride and identity. It can also be seen as a way for the child to draw closer to God and to accept his obligation to observe and practice the laws of Judaism.
At the same time, there are also some who argue that circumcision can cause psychological harm to the child. Some believe that the act can be traumatic and can lead to feelings of alienation, especially if it is viewed as something forced upon the baby. On the other hand, the majority of medical studies have concluded that circumcision is generally considered safe, and that any psychological distress is minimal in comparison to the potential benefits.
Judaism’s Balance of Tradition and Modernity
The tension between tradition and modernity is an integral part of Jewish life, and circumcision is no exception. Over the years, Jewish communities have found ways to maintain their traditional beliefs while also accommodating the evolving needs of their members. This has meant taking a nuanced approach to circumcision, recognizing the importance of the practice but also emphasizing the need for informed choice and parental consent.
Ultimately, circumcision is seen as an important part of Judaism and is viewed as a way to honor the covenant between God and the Jewish people. The medical benefits of circumcision can also be seen as a positive aspect, though this is not necessarily the main reason for the practice. In the end, circumcision remains an important part of Jewish life and tradition, and it is up to each individual to decide how it is best interpreted and applied.
