The first major religious event in the life of a newborn boy is his Brit Milah. Although at eight days of age a child is merely a passive participant, Brit Milah is one of the most defining mitzvot in Judaism, dating back to Avraham Avinu (Abraham) some 3,800 years ago! The physical circumcision, the only mark that Jewish religious practice makes on the body, is a life-long symbol of Jewish faith. Brit Milah represents the reality that each individual is created incomplete and thus needs to perfect his character and actions throughout his life.
