Since Abraham’s circumcision at the ripe age of 99 (Genesis 17:7), Jews have maintained the holy covenant by circumcising their infant boys. Beyond the traditional aspect, circumcision has a solid moral purpose: it serves as a physical reminder of Jewish responsibility and our sacred task to heal the world as partners with G-d; our spiritual and moral endeavors require human effort. The very human organ that is the source of life was chosen to be sanctified by circumcision teaching us that every human desire has a holy purpose.
The rabbis taught that the mitzvot enable one to thrive. Generally the message is moral and spiritual; however, in some rare cases, the utility can be understood as intellectually, emotionally, or physically enhancing. With circumcision (brit milah), Jews have known that there is a health benefit, but we may not have known how serious that benefit was.
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