Like many religions, Christianity depends on the interpretation of its believers, and beliefs can actually vary widely from faith to faith. Circumcision has always been a controversial subject when it comes to religion, with some proponents saying it is mandated by the Bible and others claiming the procedure has more to do with medical reasons than religious propaganda. However, it is your job as a parent to figure out the balance between is best for your child as opposed to your religious beliefs. In an ideal world, the two would align together and form a perfect solution, but that is not always the case.

The ritual of circumcision actually differs from the Old to the New Testament. In the Old Testament, circumcision is a symbolic ritual that seals the covenant between Jewish men and God. Circumcision is how you “proved” you were one of God’s people. In the New Testament however, this bond between believer and God is more about accepting and believing in the redeeming nature of Jesus Christ- it is more of a spiritual ritual than a physical one.

So you are probably wondering which covenant is best- and you are the only one that can answer that question. Realistically, the decision regarding circumcision is probably a combination of both, and may be influenced in part by other issues as well- personal, societal, cultural, and medical. Since Christians are no longer living under Old Testament law, circumcision is no longer a requirement for Christianity, or “proof” that you are a good Christian. The decision to circumcise your child is one that must be based on your Christian duty to love, protect and nurture your son, therefore doing everything you can to ensure his good health and long life. No matter what you decide, circumcision is a very personal and sometimes private choice, and you do not have to validate your reasoning to fellow Christians if you do not wish to do so.

Many Christians take the opinion of the medical community quite seriously when thinking of circumcising their child. The medical community, while it does not view the procedure as routine, does admit there are slight benefits associated with having a circumcised penis, including a lower number of urinary tract infections as infants, and a decreased risk of getting sexually transmitted diseases when he becomes sexually active. However, there are also Christians that feel the potential for medical benefits are not high enough to justify putting a child at risk for complications from a major surgery so soon after the trauma of childbirth.

Whatever your feelings may be, it is important you discuss them with your partner before your child is born. Many parents turn to the advice of their preacher or pastor to help them make a decision they can feel comfortable with as Christians.

Posted in Circumcision

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