Choosing a Bris mohel

Posted by AdrianRocker on June 8th, 2013

The Brit Milah is known as the circumcision ritual and it is perhaps the most joyfully celebrated ceremony. It is dated from over 4000 years and Jewish people still respect it. When managing the Briss, the child’s parents should be focused on finding a mohel that will respect tradition, but also one that has knowledge about how to perform a circumcision in the correct manner. The choice of a Bris mohel stands between a basic surgery and a joyful celebration, a simcha. And since parents are also focused on the health of the baby and want the best for him, it is essential not to overlook some important factors. 

Making sure you choose a Bris mohel who is certified by a community rabbis is essential, as such a person has received religious training and knows exactly how important it is for the ceremony to be done in the traditional way. A mohel must also understand what a mitzvah really implies and puts an accent on compensation. Brit Milah has many customs and a mohel who is knowledgeable about them is preferred, especially the naming customs. The circumcision ritual is mandatory and a person who performs it on a daily basis and not as a second job, can definitely be considered.

Because the Briss can be rather uncomfortable for the baby, choosing someone who has practiced it for more than just a few years will relieve some of the pressure. For the best results and for minimum discomfort, the circumcision should be performed in less than a minute. Not to mention that the entire procedure should be managed while the baby is lying on a pillow and in the hands of someone comforting and gentle. The baby should not be tied down and put in a very uncomfortable position, like on a plastic board or so.

Nowadays, the circumcision procedures that a Bris mohel follow, are better and less risky for the baby. Proper sterilization is done and because the right tools are used, there are less worries. Not to mention there are mohels recommended by doctors, so parents can get a better insight on who to choose and work with. It is something different indeed when someone specialised and trained in surgical procedures, tells you exactly who to trust and who does the surgery the best. Reputation is everything, including for a Bris mohel, as such a person needs to have positive recommendations from previous clients, from rabbis, doctors and so on.

After the Briss, the mohel can stay and explain the parents how to care for the child properly. The mohel should be supportive and kind and to show much sensitivity in front of parents, so they feel comfort and know exactly that their child is in good hands. There are many benefits that come with circumcision, as risks are lower. In such modern days, when diseases tend to get more and more aggressive, a newborn circumcision can protect against many health conditions, such as urinary tract infections, diseases transmitted sexually and can ease hygiene.

In case your newborn baby has come in the world, you can consider a professional and experienced Bris mohel to celebrate his first milestone. The Briss can be less invasive and less painful for the baby when it is done right.