Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Origin Circumcision, as a token of the covenant, is a physical sign instituted by God to signify His covenant with Abraham and his descendants. This practice is first introduced in Genesis 17, where God commands Abraham to circumcise every male in his household as a perpetual sign of the covenant. The act of circumcision involves the removal of the foreskin of the male genitalia and is to be performed on the eighth day after birth. Biblical Foundation The command for circumcision is explicitly stated in Genesis 17:10-11 : "This is My covenant with you and your descendants after you, which you are to keep: Every male among you must be circumcised. You are to undergo circumcision, and it will be the sign of the covenant between Me and you." This passage establishes circumcision as a divine ordinance, marking the people of Israel as set apart for God. Theological Significance Circumcision serves as a physical and spiritual symbol of the covenant relationship between God and His chosen people. It represents the commitment to follow God's laws and the promise of blessings for obedience. The act of circumcision is not merely a cultural or traditional practice but a profound expression of faith and identity as God's people. Covenantal Implications The covenant of circumcision is not only a personal commitment but also a communal one, binding the descendants of Abraham into a collective identity. Genesis 17:12-13 further emphasizes its importance: "For the generations to come, every male among you who is eight days old must be circumcised, including those born in your household or bought with money from a foreigner—those who are not your offspring. Whether born in your household or bought with your money, they must be circumcised. My covenant in your flesh is to be an everlasting covenant." New Testament Perspective In the New Testament, the practice of circumcision becomes a point of theological discussion, particularly in the context of Gentile believers. The Apostle Paul addresses this in Romans 2:28-29 : "A man is not a Jew because he is one outwardly, nor is circumcision only outward and physical. No, a man is a Jew because he is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code." Here, Paul emphasizes the spiritual significance of circumcision, pointing to a transformation of the heart rather than mere physical compliance. Historical and Cultural Context Historically, circumcision distinguished the Israelites from surrounding nations, serving as a constant reminder of their unique relationship with God. It was a rite of passage and a mark of identity that reinforced the community's adherence to the covenantal promises and obligations. Contemporary Relevance While physical circumcision is not a requirement for Christians, the concept of a covenantal relationship with God remains central. The New Testament teaching on circumcision of the heart underscores the importance of inner transformation and faithfulness to God's covenant through Jesus Christ. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 17:11And you shall circumcise the flesh of your foreskin; and it shall be a token of the covenant between me and you. Nave's Topical Index Library Both Covenants were Prefigured in Abraham, and in the Labour of ... Acts XVI The Wilderness. Perfect Righteousness was Conferred Neither by Circumcision nor by ... Covenanting Performed in Former Ages with Approbation from Above. Covenanting Enforced by the Grant of Covenant Signs and Seals. Chapter xvii Covenanting Provided for in the Everlasting Covenant. Chapter xxi Covenanting According to the Purposes of God. Resources Is there any sin that God will not forgive? | GotQuestions.orgHow can I overcome sin in my Christian life? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about women's rights? | GotQuestions.org Token: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Token: Blood of the Paschal Lamb Token: Circumcision, of the Covenant of Abraham Token: Consecration of the Firstborn Token: Miracles of Moses, of the Divine Authority of his Missions Token: Prayer for Tokens of Mercy Token: Rainbow, That the Earth Would Never be Destroyed by a Flood Token: Sun and Moon for Time and Seasons Related Terms |
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