The night before the brit, it is customary for the father of the child to remain awake the entire night and to recite special passages from the kabbalah and Psalms. This custom to stay awake is called "Vach Nacht" – wake night. The purpose of staying awake is to guard the baby from forces that seek to disrupt the observance of this important mitzvah.

Small children are invited to recite the "Shema" at the baby’s bedside. The passage 'HaMalach HaGoel' (The angel who redeems me..) is recited.

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