Leviticus 12:3

And on the eighth day the flesh of the boy's foreskin is to be circumcised.

Study Bible

And on the eighth day
The phrase "on the eighth day" is significant in both a historical and theological context. Biblically, the number eight often symbolizes new beginnings or a new order. In the Hebrew tradition, the eighth day marks a transition from the initial period of impurity and separation to a time of covenantal inclusion. Theologically, this can be seen as a foreshadowing of the new creation and resurrection, as Jesus rose on the first day of the week, which is also the eighth day in a continuous cycle. Historically, the practice of circumcision on the eighth day is unique to the Israelites, setting them apart from surrounding cultures and emphasizing their covenant relationship with God.

the flesh of his foreskin
The "flesh of his foreskin" refers to the physical act of circumcision, which is the removal of the foreskin from the male genitalia. In Hebrew, the word for foreskin is "orlah," which can also imply something that is uncultivated or unrefined. This act is not merely a physical procedure but carries deep spiritual significance. It symbolizes the cutting away of impurity and the dedication of the individual to God. In the broader scriptural context, circumcision is a sign of the Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 17:10-14), representing a commitment to live according to God's laws and a physical mark of belonging to His chosen people.

shall be circumcised
The command "shall be circumcised" is an imperative, indicating the necessity and non-negotiable nature of this rite for the Israelites. The Hebrew verb used here is "mul," which means to cut or to circumcise. This command is not just a cultural or health-related practice but a divine ordinance that signifies the child's entry into the covenant community. It is a physical manifestation of a spiritual truth, that the people of Israel are set apart for God's purposes. In the New Testament, the concept of circumcision is expanded to include the circumcision of the heart (Romans 2:29), emphasizing inner spiritual transformation over mere external compliance. This highlights the continuity and fulfillment of the Old Testament law in the New Covenant through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai. He is the central figure in delivering God's commandments to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God to whom the laws, including the practice of circumcision, were given as a sign of the covenant.

3. Circumcision
A physical sign of the covenant between God and Abraham's descendants, instituted in Genesis 17. It is a significant ritual in Jewish tradition.

4. Eighth Day
The specific time prescribed for circumcision, symbolizing new beginnings and completeness in biblical numerology.

5. Covenant
The agreement established between God and Abraham, which circumcision represents as a physical and spiritual sign of belonging to God's people.

Teaching Points

Sign of the Covenant
Circumcision is a physical reminder of the covenant between God and His people, symbolizing purity and dedication to God.

Obedience to God's Command
The act of circumcision on the eighth day demonstrates the importance of following God's instructions precisely and faithfully.

Spiritual Significance
While physical circumcision was a sign of the covenant, the New Testament emphasizes the need for a circumcised heart, representing inner transformation and commitment to God.

Continuity and Fulfillment
The practice of circumcision connects the Old and New Testaments, showing the continuity of God's plan and its fulfillment in Christ.

Community and Identity
Circumcision served as a mark of identity for the Israelites, setting them apart as God's chosen people, which parallels the Christian identity in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the practice of circumcision on the eighth day reflect the importance of obedience to God's commands in our lives today?

2. In what ways does the concept of a "circumcised heart" in the New Testament challenge us to examine our spiritual lives?

3. How does the continuity of the covenant from the Old Testament to the New Testament enhance our understanding of God's plan for salvation?

4. What are some modern-day practices or rituals that serve as reminders of our covenant relationship with God?

5. How can understanding the historical and cultural context of circumcision deepen our appreciation for the identity and community we have in Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 17
This chapter details God's covenant with Abraham, where circumcision is first introduced as a sign of the covenant.

Luke 2:21
This verse describes the circumcision of Jesus on the eighth day, connecting the Old Testament law to the New Testament fulfillment.

Romans 2:28-29
Paul discusses the spiritual significance of circumcision, emphasizing the importance of a heart transformed by the Spirit rather than mere physical rituals.