Circumcision, a significant rite in the Abrahamic covenant, was instituted by God as a physical sign of His covenant with Abraham and his descendants. This practice was not limited to those born into the household but extended to all males, including those acquired through purchase, such as servants or slaves. This entry explores the biblical foundation and implications of this practice.

Biblical Foundation

The command for circumcision is first introduced in Genesis 17, where God establishes His covenant with Abraham. In Genesis 17:10-13 , God instructs Abraham:

"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. 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 will be an everlasting covenant."

This passage clearly delineates the scope of the circumcision command, emphasizing its application to all males within the household, regardless of their origin. The inclusion of those "bought with money" underscores the comprehensive nature of the covenant community, extending beyond biological lineage to encompass all who are part of the household.

Theological Implications

Circumcision served as a physical and spiritual marker, signifying inclusion in the covenant community and a commitment to the God of Israel. By requiring circumcision for both home-born and purchased males, the covenant signified a unifying identity under God's promise, transcending social and economic distinctions. This inclusivity foreshadows the New Testament's message of unity in Christ, where distinctions of ethnicity, status, and origin are transcended in the body of believers (Galatians 3:28).

Cultural and Social Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, circumcision was not unique to Israel; however, its theological significance was distinct. For the Israelites, it was a divinely mandated practice that set them apart from surrounding nations. The requirement for circumcision of purchased males highlights the integration of non-Israelites into the covenant community, reflecting a broader divine plan for inclusion and redemption.

Practical Observance

The practice of circumcision on the eighth day, as specified in Genesis 17:12, was adhered to with great importance. This timing, later reinforced in Levitical law (Leviticus 12:3), was seen as an act of obedience and faithfulness to God's command. The inclusion of purchased males in this rite ensured that the entire household was consecrated to God, reinforcing the household's collective identity as part of God's chosen people.

Conclusion

The practice of circumcision on both home-born and bought males underscores the comprehensive nature of God's covenant with Abraham. It highlights the inclusivity of God's promises and the unifying identity of the covenant community, setting a precedent for the broader inclusion seen in the New Testament.Genesis 17:12,13
And he that is eight days old shall be circumcised among you, every man child in your generations, he that is born in the house, or bought with money of any stranger, which is not of your seed.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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Circumcision: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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