On December 2, 2008, Asher was circumcised in a Jewish ritual called "bris" or "brit milah". This Tuesday marked the 8th day of life - the day designated for new Jewish males to receive their circumcision based on the commandment found in both Genesis and Leviticus. This covenant was originally made between God and Abraham and is now one of the most widely observed throughout Judaism.
The circumcision was performed by Dr. Lagod of Pediatric Associates and officiated by Rabbi Cowin of the Celebration Jewish Congregation. Asher's Uncle Todd, Aunt Monica, Mimi (Stefanie's Mother) came with us to Pediatric Associates to participate in the ceremony. Rabbi Cowin, Uncle Todd, and Brian were present for the actual circumcision.
In addition to the circumcision, the Brit Milah also is the ceremony where a Jewish male is given his formal Hebrew name. The formal Hebrew Name will later be used in Hebrew School and in synagogue to be called to the Torah. It is customary to name a child after a recently deceased relative to honor them.
Asher's Hebrew name is Dov Yehuda Ben Moshe. Dov is Hebrew for "bear" and comes from Grandpa Bernard "Bernie" Levine (Brian's paternal grandfather). Yehuda is Hebrew for "praise" and comes from Grandpa Julius "Julie" Shapiro (Brian's maternal grandfather) who passed away earlier this year. Ben means "son" and Moshe is Brian's Hebrew name.
For pictures of the ceremony, click here.
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