Before.

A Bris generally takes place on the 8th day after the baby’s birth, after both the doctor and the mohel agree that he is ready. The Mohel will ensure the parents are aware of what to expect the day of the Bris. This will include a small list of items to bring and instructions on how to prepare baby.

A bris can take place at home, in a synagogue, or in a larger venue- whatever works for each individual family.

The ceremony itself.

A Bris is the first milestone in a Jewish baby boy’s life- signifying his belonging to the Jewish nation- a ritual that connects him to thousands of years of a rich history and propels him forward to a meaningful and significant future.

The Bris ceremony has three parts, each with opportunities to honor friends and family who can partake in the process:

1. Bringing in the baby.

The mother will give the baby to a friend or relative, who in turn will place the baby on the lap of another close friend or relative, very often the grandfather. This honoree, called the Sandek, will hold the baby as the Mohel performs the Bris, sitting in a chair which is designated as the chair of Elijah, as it is believed that Elijah the Prophet visits every single Bris.

2. The Bris.

The Mohel completes the procedure, usually within half a minute.

3. The naming of the baby.

After the bris, another honoree holds the baby as a blessing is recited, and the baby is given his Hebrew name. Many parents will keep the baby’s new name a secret until announced in the ceremony.

Following the ceremony, amidst hearty congratulations and Mazel Tovs! the family and guests will often share a festive meal or refreshments together.

After.

Typically, baby may be fussy for a day or so after the bris as he will feel some discomfort. Granulation tissue will develop around the Bris area; this is the normal healing process. Make sure to keep the Bris area lubricated with Bacitracin for the first few days to ensure the area heals properly. Until the umbilical cord falls off, sponge bathe baby.

Reach out to the mohel with any questions or concerns.