During
the Bris
It
is customary to have lit candles in the room where
the Bris is performed.
Some have the custom to kindle thirteen candles, connoting the thirteen Divine attributes of mercy.
The
father stands near the Mohel. He must "transfer" his obligation to circumcise his son to the Mohel by appointing him to
perform
the Bris in his stead. Some have the custom to take the Bris Milah knife
and give it to the Mohel as a symbolic act of transferring his obligation to the Mohel.
The
father places the child on the lap of the Sandek (if he is not the Sandek himself). The Mohel then recites certain prefatory prayers
and proceeds with the Bris.
There
are three important stages to the Bris process:
Chituch
- The removing
of the foreskin.
Priah
- Uncovering
the flesh under the foreskin.
Metzizah
- Drawing the
blood out of the wound and surrounding areas.
Following
the Bris procedure the Mohel applies some medical ointments
to
promote healing.
The
Festive Meal
Once
the Bris is completed and the child has been returned to his mother, the family and guests join for a festive meal.
It
is customary that this meal includes bread and festive foods such
as meat and wine. We also light candles to create a joyful and dignified
atmosphere. It is customary amongst Chassidim that during the feast the father of the child recites a Chassidic
discourse on the subject of Bris Milah. During the Grace After Meals, special portions are added.
