In biblical literature, the concept of "uncircumcision" extends beyond the physical state of being uncircumcised to encompass a metaphorical understanding, particularly in reference to the heart. This metaphorical use is prevalent in both the Old and New Testaments, where it signifies a spiritual condition of disobedience, rebellion, or insensitivity to God's will.

Old Testament Context

The metaphor of an "uncircumcised heart" is first introduced in the Old Testament, where it is used to describe the Israelites' spiritual stubbornness and resistance to God's commandments. In Leviticus 26:41, God speaks of the Israelites' need to humble their "uncircumcised hearts" as a prerequisite for reconciliation and restoration: "And I acted with hostility toward them and brought them into the land of their enemies. Then their uncircumcised hearts will be humbled, and they will pay for their iniquity."

Similarly, in Deuteronomy 10:16, Moses exhorts the people to "circumcise your hearts, therefore, and stiffen your necks no more." Here, the call to circumcise the heart is a call to genuine repentance and a transformation of the inner self, moving beyond mere external compliance to a heartfelt devotion to God.

The prophet Jeremiah also employs this metaphor to highlight the spiritual condition of the people. In Jeremiah 4:4, he warns, "Circumcise yourselves to the LORD; remove the foreskin of your hearts, O men of Judah and people of Jerusalem, or My wrath will break out like fire and burn with no one to extinguish it, because of your evil deeds." This passage underscores the urgency of inner purification and the dire consequences of remaining spiritually unresponsive.

New Testament Application

The New Testament continues this metaphorical use, emphasizing the transformation brought about by faith in Christ. In Romans 2:28-29, the Apostle Paul writes, "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. Such a man’s praise does not come from men, but from God." Here, Paul redefines true circumcision as an inward, spiritual reality, accomplished by the Holy Spirit, rather than a mere physical ritual.

In Colossians 2:11, Paul further elaborates on this spiritual circumcision: "In Him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of your sinful nature, with the circumcision performed by Christ and not by human hands." This passage highlights the transformative work of Christ in the believer's life, marking a departure from sin and a new identity in Him.

Theological Implications

The metaphor of the "uncircumcised heart" serves as a powerful reminder of the necessity for inner transformation and genuine faith. It calls believers to examine their hearts, seeking a relationship with God that transcends external observance and is characterized by sincere devotion and obedience. This metaphor underscores the biblical theme that true righteousness and covenant relationship with God are matters of the heart, initiated and sustained by His grace.

In summary, the concept of an "uncircumcised heart" in Scripture is a profound metaphor for spiritual insensitivity and rebellion against God. It challenges individuals to pursue a heart that is fully devoted to Him, marked by repentance, faith, and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit.Ezekiel 28:10
You shall die the deaths of the uncircumcised by the hand of strangers: for I have spoken it, said the Lord GOD.
Nave's Topical Index

Ezekiel 44:7,9
In that you have brought into my sanctuary strangers, uncircumcised in heart, and uncircumcised in flesh, to be in my sanctuary, to pollute it, even my house, when you offer my bread, the fat and the blood, and they have broken my covenant because of all your abominations.
Nave's Topical Index

Acts XVI
... For to become uncircumcised literally is impossible ... That circumcision is nothing,
and uncircumcision nothing, means ... To open the heart is to awaken within it more ...
/.../mcgarvey/a commentary on acts of the apostles/acts xvi.htm

Covenanting According to the Purposes of God.
... for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all ... of the Covenant, are denominated the
uncircumcised and the ... in the flesh, who are called uncircumcision by that which ...
/.../the ordinance of covenanting/chapter viii covenanting according to.htm

Treatise on Christ and Antichrist.
... as He calls the circumcision and the uncircumcision unto one ... Thou shalt die the deaths
of the uncircumcised by the ... For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ...
/.../treatise on christ and antichrist.htm

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