Table of contents.

Part I - General issues regarding circumcision

• Circumcision - Its source in the Torah
• The reason for Brit Milah
• The Mitzvah that's always there
• Circumcision brings good news
• Why specifically on the eighth day?
• Why not before the eighth day?
• Circumcision as immunization against life's problems

Part II - Jewish laws, customs, and practices regarding circumcision, it's ceremony and preparations

• The Shalom Zachar
• "Vach Nacht"
• When the Brit should take place
• The Mohel and the Sandek
• Elijah's chair
• The Brit ceremony
• The issue of pain during circumcision
• Naming the baby
• Ceremony following the Brit
• The Pidyon Haben

Part III - Circumcision and related laws

• On which day must the circumcision take place?
• Medical reasons for postponement
• What time of day should the brit take place?
• The Shalom Zachar
• "Vach Nacht" – The night before the brit
• Kvatter and Kvatterin (Godparents)
• The Chair of Elijah
• The Mohel
• The Izmail knife
• The father’s role
• The others present
• The Milah
• Twins
• The Circumcision Meal

Part IV - Interesting thought excerpts and anecdotes regarding brit mila - circumcision

• In the merit of Milah
• The blood of milah suppresses Hashem's anger
• "You won't leave home without it!"
• Better safe than sorry!
• Dispose of properly
• Eat dirt!
• Uninvited guests
• Great is the Mitzvah of Milah...
• Despite the parent's love for their child
• The self-sacrifice involved
• Underground circumcision
• Fatalities are rare, despite child's tender age