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Topical Encyclopedia

Circumcision is a significant religious and cultural practice that holds a prominent place in the biblical narrative, particularly within the context of the Abrahamic covenant. It involves the surgical removal of the male foreskin and serves as a physical sign of the covenant between God and His people.

Biblical Origins and Significance

The practice of circumcision is first introduced in the Bible inGenesis 17, where God establishes His covenant with Abraham. God commands Abraham to circumcise every male in his household as a sign of this everlasting covenant.Genesis 17:10-11 states, "This is My covenant with you and your descendants after you, which you are to keep: Every male among you must be circumcised. You are to undergo circumcision, and it will be the sign of the covenant between Me and you."

Circumcision was to be performed on the eighth day after birth, as further instructed inGenesis 17:12 : "For the generations to come, every male among you who is eight days old must be circumcised, including those born in your household or bought with money from a foreigner—those who are not your offspring."

Covenantal and Theological Implications

Circumcision served as a physical and outward sign of the covenant relationship between God and the descendants of Abraham. It symbolized the commitment of the Israelites to follow God's laws and to be set apart as His chosen people. The act of circumcision was not merely a cultural or hygienic practice but held deep spiritual significance, representing purity, obedience, and dedication to God.

In the Mosaic Law, circumcision was reaffirmed as a requirement for the Israelites.Leviticus 12:3 reiterates the command: "And on the eighth day, the flesh of the boy’s foreskin is to be circumcised." This practice distinguished the Israelites from other nations and was a constant reminder of their unique relationship with God.

Prophetic and New Testament Perspectives

The prophets of the Old Testament, while affirming the importance of circumcision, also emphasized the need for a deeper, spiritual circumcision of the heart.Jeremiah 4:4 calls the people to "Circumcise yourselves to the LORD; remove the foreskin of your hearts, O men of Judah and people of Jerusalem." This highlights the prophetic call for inner transformation and genuine devotion to God, beyond mere physical observance.

In the New Testament, the practice of circumcision becomes a point of theological discussion, particularly in the context of the early Church and the inclusion of Gentile believers. The Apostle Paul addresses this issue extensively, arguing that physical circumcision is not a requirement for salvation. InRomans 2:28-29 , Paul writes, "A man is not a Jew because he is one outwardly, nor is circumcision only outward and physical. No, a man is a Jew because he is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code."

Paul further elaborates inGalatians 5:6 , stating, "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. All that matters is faith, expressed through love." This underscores the New Testament teaching that faith in Christ, rather than adherence to the ceremonial law, is the basis of righteousness and inclusion in the covenant community.

Cultural and Historical Context

Circumcision was not unique to the Israelites; it was practiced by various ancient cultures, including the Egyptians and other Semitic peoples. However, its adoption as a covenantal sign by the Israelites set them apart and reinforced their identity as God's chosen people.

Throughout history, circumcision has continued to be a significant rite within Judaism, symbolizing the continuity of the Abrahamic covenant. In Christianity, while the physical act is not required, the spiritual principles it represents—commitment, purity, and dedication to God—remain central to the faith.

Smith's Bible Dictionary

Circumcision

was peculiarly, though not exclusively, aJewish rite. It was enjoined upon Abraham, the father of the nation, by God, at the institution and as the token of the covenant, which assured to him and his descendants the promise of the Messiah. Gen. 17. It was thus made a necessary condition of Jewish nationality. Every male child was to be circumcised when eight days old, (Leviticus 12:3) on pain of death. The biblical notice of the rite describes it as distinctively Jewish; so that in the New Testament "the circumcision" and "the uncircumcision" are frequently used as synonyms for the Jews and the Gentiles. The rite has been found to prevail extensively in both ancient and modern times. Though Mohammed did not enjoin circumcision in the Koran, he was circumcised himself, according to the custom of his country; and circumcision is now as common among the Mohammedans as among the Jews. The process of restoring a circumcised person to his natural condition by a surgical operation was sometimes undergone. Some of the Jews in the time of Antiochus Epiphanes, wishing to assimilate themselves to the heathen around them, "made themselves uncircumcised." Against having recourse to this practice, from an excessive anti-Judaistic tendency, St. Paul cautions the Corinthians. (1 Corinthians 7:18)

ATS Bible Dictionary

Circumcision

A cutting around, because in this rite the foreskin was cut away. God commanded Abraham to use circumcision, as a sign of his covenant; and in obedience to this order, the patriarch, at ninety-nine years of age, was circumcised, as also his son Ishmael, and all the male of his household,Genesis 17:10-12. God repeated the precept to Moses, and ordered that all who intended to partake of the paschal sacrifice should receive circumcision; and that this rite should be performed on children on the eighth day after their birth,Exodus 12:44 Le 12:3 Joh 7:22. The Jews have always been very exact in observing this ceremony, and it appears that they did not neglect it when in Egypt,Joshua 5:1-9.

All the other nations sprung from Abraham besides the Hebrews, as the Ishmaelites, the Arabians, etc., also retained the practice of circumcision. At the present day it is an essential rite of the Mohammedan religion, and though not enjoined in the Koran, prevails wherever this religion is found. It is also practiced in some form among the Abyssinians, and various tribes of South Africa, as it was by the ancient Egyptians. But there is no proof that it was practiced upon infants, or became a general, national, or religious custom, before God enjoined it upon Abraham.

The Jews esteemed uncircumcision as a very great impurity; and the greatest offence they could receive was to be called "uncircumcised." Paul frequently mentions the Gentiles under this term, not opprobriously, Ro 2...26, in opposition to the Jews, whom he names "the circumcision," etc.

Disputes as to the observances of this rite by the converts from heathenism to Christianity occasioned much trouble in the early church,Acts 15:1-41; and it was long before it was well understood that "in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature,"Galatians 5:2,3:6:15.

The true circumcision is that of the heart; and those are "uncircumcised in heart and ears," who will not obey the law of God nor embrace the gospel of Christ.

Easton's Bible Dictionary

Cutting around. This rite, practised before, as some think, by divers races, was appointed by God to be the special badge of his chosen people, an abiding sign of their consecration to him. It was established as a national ordinance (Genesis 17:10, 11). In compliance with the divine command, Abraham, though ninety-nine years of age, was circumcised on the same day with Ishmael, who was thirteen years old (17:24-27). Slaves, whether home-born or purchased, were circumcised (17:12, 13); and all foreigners must have their males circumcised before they could enjoy the privileges of Jewish citizenship (Exodus 12:48). During the journey through the wilderness, the practice of circumcision fell into disuse, but was resumed by the command of Joshua before they entered the Promised Land (Joshua 5:2-9). It was observed always afterwards among the tribes of israel, although it is not expressly mentioned from the time of the settlement in Canaan till the time of Christ, about 1,450 years. The Jews prided themselves in the possession of this covenant distinction (Judges 14:3;15:18;1 Samuel 14:6;17:26;2 Samuel 1:20;Ezek. 31:18).

As a rite of the church it ceased when the New Testament times began (Galatians 6:15;Colossians 3:11). Some Jewish Christians sought to impose it, however, on the Gentile converts; but this the apostles resolutely resisted (Acts 15:1;Galatians 6:12). Our Lord was circumcised, for it "became him to fulfil all righteousness," as of the seed of Abraham, according to the flesh; and Paul "took and circumcised" Timothy (Acts 16:3), to avoid giving offence to the Jews. It would render Timothy's labours more acceptable to the Jews. But Paul would by no means consent to the demand that Titus should be circumcised (Galatians 2:3-5). The great point for which he contended was the free admission of uncircumcised Gentiles into the church. He contended successfully in behalf of Titus, even in Jerusalem.

In the Old Testament a spiritual idea is attached to circumcision. It was the symbol of purity (Isaiah 52:1). We read of uncircumcised lips (Exodus 6:12, 30), ears (Jeremiah 6:10), hearts (Leviticus 26:41). The fruit of a tree that is unclean is spoken of as uncircumcised (Leviticus 19:23).

It was a sign and seal of the covenant of grace as well as of the national covenant between God and the Hebrews.

(1.) It sealed the promises made to Abraham, which related to the commonwealth of Israel, national promises.

(2.) But the promises made to Abraham included the promise of redemption (Galatians 3:14), a promise which has come upon us. The covenant with Abraham was a dispensation or a specific form of the covenant of grace, and circumcision was a sign and seal of that covenant. It had a spiritual meaning. It signified purification of the heart, inward circumcision effected by the Spirit (Deuteronomy 10:16;30:6;Ezek. 44:7;Acts 7:51;Romans 2:28;Colossians 2:11). Circumcision as a symbol shadowing forth sanctification by the Holy Spirit has now given way to the symbol of baptism (q.v.). But the truth embodied in both ordinances is ever the same, the removal of sin, the sanctifying effects of grace in the heart.

Under the Jewish dispensation, church and state were identical. No one could be a member of the one without also being a member of the other. Circumcision was a sign and seal of membership in both. Every circumcised person bore thereby evidence that he was one of the chosen people, a member of the church of God as it then existed, and consequently also a member of the Jewish commonwealth.

Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary

1. (n.) The act of cutting off the prepuce or foreskin of males, or the internal labia of females.

2. (n.) The Jews, as a circumcised people.

3. (n.) Rejection of the sins of the flesh; spiritual purification, and acceptance of the Christian faith.

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

CIRCUMCISION

sur-kum-sizh'-un (mul, muloth; peritome): The removal of the foreskin is a custom that has prevailed, and prevails, among many races in different parts of the world-in America, Africa and Australia. It was in vogue among the western Semites-Hebrews, Arabians, Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Egyptians, but was unknown among the Semites of the Euphrates. In Canaan the Philistines were an exception, for the term "uncircumcised" is constantly used in connection with them. Generally speaking, the rite of circumcision was a precondition of the enjoyment of certain political and religious privileges (Exodus 12:48 Ezekiel 44:9); and in view of the fact that in the ancient world religion played such an important role in life, it may be assumed that circumcision, like many other strange customs whose original significance is no longer known, originated in connection with religion. Before enumerating the different theories which have been advanced with regard to the origin and original significance of circumcision, it may be of advantage to consider some of the principal references to the rite in the Old Testament.

1. Circumcision in the Old Testament:

In the account of the institution of the covenant between Yahweh and Abraham which Priestly Code (P) gives (Genesis 17), circumcision is looked upon as the ratification of the agreement. Yahweh undertook to be the God of Abraham and of his descendants. Abraham was to be the father of a multitude of nations and the founder of a line of kings. He and his descendants were to inherit Canaan. The agreement thus formed was permanent; Abraham's posterity should come within the scope of it. But it was necessary to inclusion in the covenant that every male child should be circumcised on the 8th day. A foreigner who had attached himself as a slave to a Hebrew household had to undergo the rite-the punishment for its non-fulfilment being death or perhaps excommunication. According toExodus 12:48 (also P) no stranger could take part in the celebration of the Passover unless he had been circumcised. In the Book of Jos (Joshua 5:2-9) we read that the Israelites were circumcised at Gilgal ("Rolling"), and thus the "reproach of Egypt" was "rolled away." Apparently circumcision in the case of the Hebrews was prohibited during the Egyptian period-circumcision being a distinctive mark of the ruling race. It is noticeable that flint knives were used for the purpose. This use of an obsolete instrument is one of many proofs of conservatism in religion. According to the strange and obscure account of the circumcision by Zipporah of her eldest son (Exodus 4:25) the performance of the rite in the case of the son apparently possesses a vicarious value, for thereby Moses becomes a "bridegroom of blood." The marriage bond is ratified by the rite of blood (see 4 below). But it is possible that the author's meaning is that owing to the fact that Moses had not been circumcised (the "reproach of Egypt") he was not fit to enter the matrimonial estate (see 3 below).

2. Theories of Origin:

The different theories with regard to the origin of circumcision may be arranged under four heads:

(1) Herodotus (ii.37), in dealing with circumcision among the Egyptians, suggests that it was a sanitary operation. But all suggestions of a secular, i.e. non-religious, origin to the rite, fail to do justice to the place and importance of religion in the life of primitive man.

(2) It was a tribal mark. Tattooed marks frequently answered the purpose, although they may have been originally charms. The tribal mark enabled one member of the tribe to recognize another and thus avoid injuring or slaying a fellow-tribesman. It also enabled the tribal deity to recognize a member of the tribe which was under his special protection. A mark was placed on Cain to indicate that he was under the special protection of Yahweh (Genesis 4:15). It has been suggested, in the light ofIsaiah 44:5 the Revised Version, margin, that the employer's mark was engraved (tattooed) on the slave's hand. The prophet represents Jews as inscribing on their hands that they belong to Yahweh. The walls of Jerusalem are engraved on Yahweh's palms (Isaiah 49:16). On the other hand "cuttings in the flesh" are prohibited inLeviticus 19:28 because they were common in the case of the non-Jewish religions. Such tattooed marks might be made in conspicuous places when it was necessary that they should be easily seen, but there might be reason for secrecy so that the marks might be known only to the members of the tribe in question.

(3) It was a rite which celebrated the coming of age of the person. It signified the attainment of puberty and of the right to marry and to enjoy full civic privileges.

(4) As human sacrifices began to be done away with, the sacrifice of the most easily removed portion of the anatomy provided a vicarious offering.

(5) It was a sacramental operation. "The shedding of blood" was necessary to the validity of any covenant between tribes or individuals. The rite of blood signifies the exchange of blood on the part of the contracting parties, and therefore the establishment of physical affinity between them. An alliance based on blood-relationship was inviolable. In the same way the tribal god was supposed to share in the blood of the sacrificed animal, and a sacred bond was established between him and the tribe. It is not quite obvious why circumcision should be necessary in connection with such a ceremony. But it may be pointed out that the process of generation excited the wonder and awe of primitive man. The prosperity of the tribe depended on the successful issue of the marriage bond, and a part of the body which had so much to do with the continuation and numerical strength of the tribe would naturally be fixed upon in connection with the covenant of blood. In confirmation of the last explanation it is urged that in the case of the covenant between Yahweh and Abraham circumcision was the rite that ratified the agreement. In opposition to (3) it has been urged that among the Hebrews circumcision was performed in infancy-when the child was 8 days old. But this might have been an innovation among the Hebrews, due to ignorance of the original significance of the rite. If circumcision conferred upon the person circumcised the right to the enjoyment of the blessings connected with membership in the tribe it was natural that parents should be anxious that such an initiatory act should be performed early in life. The question of adult and infant baptism is capable of similar explanation. When we examine explanations (2), (3), (4), (5), we find that they are really different forms of the same theory. There can be no doubt that circumcision was originally a religions act. Membership in the tribe, entrance upon the rights of citizenship, participation in the religious practices of the tribe-these privileges are interdependent. Anyone who had experienced the rite of blood stood within the scope of the covenant which existed between the tribe and the tribal god, and enjoyed all the privileges of tribal society. It is easily understood why the historian carefully relates the circumcision of the Israelites by Joshua on their arrival in Canaan. It was necessary, in view of the possible intermingling of the conquerors and the conquered, that the distinctive marks of the Abrahamic covenant should be preserved (Joshua 5:3).

3. Spiritual Significance:

InJeremiah 9:25 andDeuteronomy 30:6 we find the spiritual significance of circumcision. A prophet like Jeremiah was not likely to attach much importance to an external act like circumcision. He bluntly tells his countrymen that they are no better than Egyptians, Edomites, Moabites and Ammonites. They are uncircumcised in heart. Paul uses the term concision for this outward circumcision unaccompanied by any spiritual change (Philippians 3:2). The question of circumcision occasioned a protracted strife among the early Christians. Judaizing Christians argued for the necessity of circumcision. It was a reminiscence of the unrelenting particularism which had sprung up during the prolonged oppression of the Greek and Roman period. According to their view salvation was of the Jews and for the Jews. It was necessary to become a Jew in order to become a Christian. Paul consented to circumcision in the case of Timothy "because of the Jews" (Acts 16:3). But he saw that a principle was at stake and in most of his epistles he points out the sheer futility of the contention of the Judaizers. (Seecommentaries on Romans and Galatians.)

4. Figurative Uses:

In a few suggestive passages we find a figurative application of the term. For three years after the settlement in Canaan the "fruit of the land" was to be considered as "uncircumcised" (Leviticus 19:23), i.e. it was the property of the Baalim, the gods of Palestine The fruit of the fourth year belonged to Yahweh. Moses with characteristic humility describes himself as a man of "uncircumcised lips" (Exodus 6:30). Jeremiah charges his contemporaries with having their ear uncircumcised (Jeremiah 6:10) and their heart (Jeremiah 9:26). "An uncircumcised heart" is one which is, as it were, closed in, and so impervious to good influences and good impressions, just as an uncircumcised ear (Jeremiah 6:10) is an ear which, from the same cause, hears imperfectly; and uncircumcised lips (compareExodus 6:12, 30) are lips which open and speak with difficulty (Driver onDeuteronomy 10:16).

T. Lewis

Greek

4061. peritome --circumcision
...circumcision. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: peritome Phonetic
Spelling: (per-it-om-ay') Short Definition:circumcision Definition:circumcision...

203. akrobustia -- the prepuce, foreskin, hence uncircumcision
... Physicalcircumcision is the of God's covenant, representing the from God to by --
through ().... The duty of physicalcircumcision of course did relate to .]....

4059. peritemno -- to cut around, circumcise
... Word Origin from peri and the same as tomos Definition to cut around, circumcise
NASB Word Usage circumcise (4), circumcised (10),circumcision (1), receive...

2487. ichnos -- a track
... Ro 4:12: "And the father ofcircumcision to those who not only are of thecircumcision,
but who also follow in the (2487) of the (principle of) (4102 ) of our...

1986. epispaomai -- to draw over, to become as uncircumcised
... From epi and spao; to draw over, ie (with akrobustia implied) efface the mark of
circumcision (by recovering with the foreskin) -- become uncircumcised....

2699. katatome -- concision, mutilation
... Word Origin from kata and temno (to cut) Definition concision, mutilation NASB Word
Usage falsecircumcision (1). mutilation, cutting in pieces....

Strong's Hebrew

4139. mulah --circumcision
... 4138, 4139. mulah. 4140 .circumcision. Transliteration: mulah Phonetic
Spelling: (moo-law') Short Definition:circumcision. Word...

1118. Bimhal -- perhaps "son ofcircumcision," a descendant of...
... Bimhal. 1119 . perhaps "son ofcircumcision," a descendant of Asher. Transliteration:
Bimhal Phonetic Spelling: (bim-hawl') Short Definition: Bimhal....

Library

Circumcision
... II. THE CHRISTIAN YEARCircumcision. [315]88 The ancient law departs
[316]89 To the Name of our salvation [317]90 Jesus! Name of...

WhetherCircumcision was a Preparation For, and a Figure of...
... OFCIRCUMCISION (FOUR ARTICLES) Whethercircumcision was a preparation for, and
a figure of Baptism?... Butcircumcision has no likeness to Baptism....

Of theCircumcision of Christ.
... New Year. OF THECIRCUMCISION OF CHRIST. Why should they such pain e'er
give Thee, Why inflict such cruel smart? Jesus, why should...

Whether the Rite ofCircumcision was Fitting?
... OFCIRCUMCISION (FOUR ARTICLES) Whether the rite ofcircumcision was fitting? Objection
1: It seems that the rite ofcircumcision was unfitting....

Concerning theCircumcision.
... Book IV. Chapter XXV."Concerning theCircumcision. TheCircumcision [2694]
was given to Abraham before the law, after the blessings...

TheCircumcision of Jesus
... XII. THECIRCUMCISION OF JESUS. 1. PREPARATION FOR THECIRCUMCISION. JOSEPHS FETCHS
THE PRIESTS FROM BETHLEHEM.... 2. THECIRCUMCISION OF CHRIST. THE NAME JESUS....

WhetherCircumcision was Instituted in a Fitting Manner?
... OFCIRCUMCISION (FOUR ARTICLES) Whethercircumcision was instituted in
a fitting manner? Objection 1: It seems thatcircumcision...

OfCircumcision (Four Articles)
... OFCIRCUMCISION (FOUR ARTICLES). We have... viz.Circumcision, (2) those which
accompany Baptism, viz. Catechism and Exorcism. Concerning...

WhetherCircumcision Bestowed Sanctifying Grace?
... OFCIRCUMCISION (FOUR ARTICLES) Whethercircumcision bestowed sanctifying grace?
Objection 1: It seems thatcircumcision did not bestow sanctifying grace....

Circumcision Abolished.
... Hymn 2:134.Circumcision abolished. 1 The promise was divinely free, Extensive was
the grace; "I will the God of Abrah'm be, "And of his numerous race."...

Thesaurus

Circumcision (98 Occurrences)
... During the journey through the wilderness, the practice ofcircumcision fell into
disuse, but was resumed by the command of Joshua before they entered the...

Uncircumcision (19 Occurrences)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (n.) The absence or want ofcircumcision. 2. (n.) People
not circumcised; the Gentiles. Int.... SeeCIRCUMCISION. Burton Scott Easton....

Underwent (22 Occurrences)
... Romans 4:11 And he was given the sign ofcircumcision as a witness of the faith
which he had before he underwentcircumcision: so that he might be the father...

Foreskin (12 Occurrences)
... often euphemistically translated "uncircumcision"): (1) In the literal sense the
word is frequently mentioned owing to the rite ofcircumcision in vogue in...

Uncircumcised (48 Occurrences)
... SeeCIRCUMCISION.... Romans 2:26 If therefore the uncircumcised keep the ordinances
of the law, won't his uncircumcision be accounted ascircumcision?...

Circumcised (58 Occurrences)
... (WEY NIV). Acts 7:8 He gave him the covenant ofcircumcision. So Abraham became
the father of Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day....

Concision (1 Occurrence)
... katatome; ie, "mutilation"), a term used by Paul contemptuously of those who were
zealots forcircumcision (Philippians 3:2). Instead of the warning, "Beware...

Reckoned (98 Occurrences)
... (WEY DBY YLT). Romans 2:26 If therefore the uncircumcision keep the ordinances of
the law, shall not his uncircumcision be reckoned forcircumcision?...

Credited (19 Occurrences)
... Credited (19 Occurrences). Romans 2:26 If those who have notcircumcision keep the
rules of the law, will it not be credited to them ascircumcision? (BBE)....

Value (138 Occurrences)
... Romans 2:25 Forcircumcision indeed profits, if you are a doer of the law, but if
you are a transgressor of the law, yourcircumcision has become uncircumcision...

Resources

What is circumcision of the heart? | GotQuestions.org

Is baptism the New Covenant equivalent of circumcision? | GotQuestions.org

What does the Bible say about circumcision? What is the Christian view of circumcision? | GotQuestions.org

Circumcision: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance •Bible Dictionary •Bible Encyclopedia •Topical Bible •Bible Thesuarus

Concordance

Circumcision (98 Occurrences)

Luke 1:59
And on the eighth day they came to see to thecircumcision of the child, and they would have given him the name of Zacharias, his father's name;
(BBE)

Luke 2:21
When eight days were fulfilled for thecircumcision of the child, his name was called Jesus, which was given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
(WEB BBE NAS)

John 7:22
Moses has given youcircumcision (not that it is of Moses, but of the fathers), and on the Sabbath you circumcise a boy.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

John 7:23
If a boy receivescircumcision on the Sabbath, that the law of Moses may not be broken, are you angry with me, because I made a man completely healthy on the Sabbath?
(WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV)

Acts 7:8
He gave him the covenant ofcircumcision. So Abraham became the father of Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day. Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob became the father of the twelve patriarchs.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Acts 10:45
They of thecircumcision who believed were amazed, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was also poured out on the Gentiles.
(WEB KJV ASV DBY WBS YLT)

Acts 11:2
When Peter had come up to Jerusalem, those who were of thecircumcision contended with him,
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT RSV)

Acts 11:3
Saying, You went to men withoutcircumcision, and took food with them.
(BBE)

Acts 15:1
Now certain men came down from Judaea, teaching the brothers and saying that withoutcircumcision, after the rule of Moses, there is no salvation.
(BBE)

Acts 15:5
But some of the Pharisees, who were of the faith, got up and said, It is necessary for these to havecircumcision and to keep the law of Moses.
(BBE)

Acts 16:3
Paul had a desire for him to go with him, and he gave himcircumcision because of the Jews who were in those parts: for they all had knowledge that his father was a Greek.
(BBE)

Acts 21:21
And they have had news of you, how you have been teaching all the Jews among the Gentiles to give up the law of Moses, and not to givecircumcision to their children, and not to keep the old rules.
(BBE)

Romans 2:25
Forcircumcision indeed profits, if you are a doer of the law, but if you are a transgressor of the law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Romans 2:26
If therefore the uncircumcised keep the ordinances of the law, won't his uncircumcision be accounted as circumcision?
(Root in WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV)

Romans 2:27
Won't the uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfills the law, judge you, who with the letter and circumcision are a transgressor of the law?
(Root in WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Romans 2:28
For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, neither is thatcircumcision which is outward in the flesh;
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Romans 2:29
but he is a Jew who is one inwardly, andcircumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit not in the letter; whose praise is not from men, but from God.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Romans 3:1
Then what advantage does the Jew have? Or what is the profit ofcircumcision?
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Romans 3:30
Seeing it is one God, which shall justify thecircumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.
(KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT)

Romans 4:9
Cometh this blessedness then upon thecircumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness.
(KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT)

Romans 4:10
How then was it counted? When he was incircumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.
(WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT)

Romans 4:11
He received the sign ofcircumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while he was in uncircumcision, that he might be the father of all those who believe, though they be in uncircumcision, that righteousness might also be accounted to them.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Romans 4:12
The father ofcircumcision to those who not only are of the circumcision, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had in uncircumcision.
(WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS)

Romans 15:8
Now I say that Christ has been made a servant of thecircumcision for the truth of God, that he might confirm the promises given to the fathers,
(WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS)

1 Corinthians 7:18
Was anyone called having been circumcised? Let him not become uncircumcised. Has anyone been called in uncircumcision? Let him not be circumcised.
(Root in WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV)

1 Corinthians 7:19
Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Galatians 2:3
But not even Titus who was with me, being a Greek, was made to undergocircumcision:
(BBE)

Galatians 2:7
but to the contrary, when they saw that I had been entrusted with the Good News for the uncircumcision, even as Peter with the Good News for the circumcision
(Root in WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT)

Galatians 2:8
(for he who appointed Peter to the apostleship of thecircumcision appointed me also to the Gentiles);
(WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT)

Galatians 2:9
and when they perceived the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, they who were reputed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the Gentiles, and they to thecircumcision.
(WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT)

Galatians 2:12
For before some people came from James, he ate with the Gentiles. But when they came, he drew back and separated himself, fearing those who were of thecircumcision.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Galatians 5:2
Behold, I, Paul, tell you that if you receivecircumcision, Christ will profit you nothing.
(WEB WEY ASV BBE NAS RSV)

Galatians 5:3
Yes, I testify again to every man who receivescircumcision, that he is a debtor to do the whole law.
(WEB WEY ASV BBE NAS RSV)

Galatians 5:6
For in Christ Jesus neithercircumcision amounts to anything, nor uncircumcision, but faith working through love.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Galatians 5:11
But I, brothers, if I still preachcircumcision, why am I still persecuted? Then the stumbling block of the cross has been removed.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Galatians 5:12
I would that they that unsettle you would even go beyondcircumcision.
(ASV)

Galatians 6:12
All who desire to display their zeal for external observances try to compel you to receivecircumcision, but their real object is simply to escape being persecuted for the Cross of Christ.
(WEY BBE)

Galatians 6:13
For even they who receivecircumcision don't keep the law themselves, but they desire to have you circumcised, that they may boast in your flesh.
(WEB WEY ASV BBE RSV)

Galatians 6:15
For in Christ Jesus neither iscircumcision anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Ephesians 2:11
Therefore remember that once you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called "uncircumcision" by that which is called "circumcision," (in the flesh, made by hands);
(Root in WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Philippians 3:2
Beware of the dogs, beware of the evil workers, beware of the falsecircumcision.
(WEB BBE NAS)

Philippians 3:3
For we are thecircumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh;
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Philippians 3:5
Being givencircumcision on the eighth day, of the nation of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in relation to the law, a Pharisee:
(BBE DBY YLT)

Colossians 2:11
in whom you were also circumcised with acircumcision not made with hands, in the putting off of the body of the sins of the flesh, in the circumcision of Christ;
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Colossians 3:11
where there can't be Greek and Jew,circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, bondservant, freeman; but Christ is all, and in all.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT)

Colossians 4:11
and Jesus who is called Justus, who are of thecircumcision. These are my only fellow workers for the Kingdom of God, men who have been a comfort to me.
(WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV)

Titus 1:10
For there are also many unruly men, vain talkers and deceivers, especially those of thecircumcision,
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Genesis 17:10
And this is the agreement which you are to keep with me, you and your seed after you: every male among you is to undergocircumcision.
(BBE)

Genesis 17:11
And ye shall be circumcised in the flesh of your foreskin; and it shall be a token of a covenant betwixt Me and you.
(See NIV)

Genesis 17:12
Every male among you, from one generation to another, is to undergocircumcision when he is eight days old, with every servant whose birth takes place in your house, or for whom you gave money to someone of another country, and not of your seed.
(BBE)

Genesis 17:13
He who comes to birth in your house and he who is made yours for a price, all are to undergocircumcision; so that my agreement may be marked in your flesh, an agreement for all time.
(BBE)

Genesis 17:14
And any male who does not undergocircumcision will be cut off from his people: my agreement has been broken by him.
(BBE)

Genesis 17:23
And Abraham took Ishmael, his son, and all whose birth had taken place in his house, and all his servants whom he had made his for a price, every male of his house, and on that very day he gave themcircumcision in the flesh of their private parts as God had said to him.
(BBE)

Genesis 17:24
Abraham was ninety-nine years old when he underwentcircumcision.
(BBE)

Genesis 17:25
And Ishmael, his son, was thirteen years old when he underwentcircumcision.
(BBE)

Genesis 17:26
Abraham and Ishmael, his son, underwentcircumcision on that very day.
(BBE)

Genesis 17:27
And all the men of his house, those whose birth had taken place in the house and those whom he had got for money from men of other lands, underwentcircumcision with him.
(BBE)

Genesis 21:4
And when his son Isaac was eight days old, Abraham made him undergocircumcision, as God had said to him.
(BBE)

Genesis 34:14
And they said, It is not possible for us to give our sister to one who is withoutcircumcision, for that would be a cause of shame to us:
(BBE)

Genesis 34:15
But on this condition only will we come to an agreement with you: if every male among you becomes like us and undergoescircumcision;
(BBE)

Genesis 34:17
But if you will not undergocircumcision as we say, then we will take our daughter and go.
(BBE)

Genesis 34:22
But these men will make an agreement with us to go on living with us and to become one people, only on the condition that every male among us undergoescircumcision as they have done.
(BBE)

Genesis 34:24
Then all the men of the town gave ear to the words of Hamor and Shechem his son; and every male in the town underwentcircumcision.
(BBE)

Exodus 4:26
So he let him alone. Then she said, "You are a bridegroom of blood," because of thecircumcision.
(WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Exodus 12:44
But every man's servant, whom he has got for money, may take of it, when he has hadcircumcision.
(BBE)

Exodus 12:48
And if a man from another country is living with you, and has a desire to keep the Passover to the Lord, let all the males of his family undergocircumcision, and then let him come near and keep it; for he will then be as one of your people; but no one without circumcision may keep it.
(BBE)

Leviticus 12:3
And on the eighth day let him be givencircumcision.
(BBE)

Leviticus 19:23
And when ye shall come into the land, and shall have planted all manner of trees for food, then ye shall count the fruit thereof as their uncircumcision: three years shall they be as uncircumcised unto you; it shall not be eaten.
(Root in ASV BBE)

Deuteronomy 10:16
Let yourcircumcision be of the heart, and put away your pride.
(BBE)

Deuteronomy 30:6
And the Lord your God will give to you and to your seed acircumcision of the heart, so that, loving him with all your heart and all your soul, you may have life.
(BBE)

Joshua 5:2
At that time the Lord said to Joshua, Make yourself stone knives and give the children of Israelcircumcision a second time.
(BBE)

Joshua 5:3
So Joshua made stone knives and gave the children of Israelcircumcision at Gibeath-ha-araloth.
(BBE)

Joshua 5:5
All the people who came out had undergonecircumcision; but all the people whose birth had taken place in the waste land on their journey from Egypt had not.
(BBE)

Joshua 5:7
And their children, who came up in their place, now underwentcircumcision by the hands of Joshua, not having had it before: for there had been no circumcision on the journey.
(BBE)

Joshua 5:8
So when all the nation had undergonecircumcision, they kept in their tents till they were well again.
(BBE)

Judges 14:3
Then his father and mother said to him, Is there no woman among the daughters of your relations or among all my people, that you have to go for your wife to the Philistines, who are withoutcircumcision? But Samson said to his father, Get her for me, for she is pleasing to me.
(BBE)

Judges 15:18
After this, he was in great need of water, and crying out to the Lord, he said, You have given this great salvation by the hand of your servant, and now need of water will be my death; and I will be given into the hands of this people who are withoutcircumcision.
(BBE)

1 Samuel 14:6
And Jonathan said to his young servant who had his arms, Come, let us go over to the armies of these men who have nocircumcision: it may be that the Lord will give us help, for there is no limit to his power; the Lord is able to give salvation by a great army or by a small band.
(BBE)

1 Samuel 17:26
And David said to the men near him, What will be done to the man who overcomes this Philistine and takes away the shame from Israel? for who is this Philistine, a man withoutcircumcision, that he has put shame on the armies of the living God?
(BBE)

1 Samuel 17:36
Your servant has overcome lion and bear: and the fate of this Philistine, who is withoutcircumcision, will be like theirs, seeing that he has put shame on the armies of the living God.
(BBE)

1 Samuel 31:4
Then Saul said to the servant who had the care of his arms, Take out your sword and put it through me, before these men withoutcircumcision come and make sport of me. But his servant, full of fear, would not do so. Then Saul took out his sword, and falling on it, put an end to himself.
(BBE)

2 Samuel 1:20
Give no news of it in Gath, let it not be said in the streets of Ashkelon; or the daughters of the Philistines will be glad, the daughters of men withoutcircumcision will be uplifted in joy.
(BBE)

1 Chronicles 10:4
Then Saul said to the servant who had the care of his arms, Take your sword and put it through me, before these men withoutcircumcision come and make sport of me. But his servant, full of fear, would not do so. Then Saul took out his sword, falling on it himself.
(BBE)

Isaiah 52:1
Awake! awake! put on your strength, O Zion; put on your beautiful robes, O Jerusalem, the holy town: for from now there will never again come into you the unclean and those withoutcircumcision.
(BBE)

Jeremiah 4:4
Undergo acircumcision of the heart, you men of Judah and people of Jerusalem: or my wrath may come out like fire, burning so that no one is able to put it out, because of the evil of your doings.
(BBE)

Jeremiah 9:25
Behold, the days come, says Yahweh, that I will punish all those who are circumcised in their uncircumcision:
(Root in WEB JPS ASV BBE)

Jeremiah 9:26
On Egypt and on Judah and on Edom and on the children of Ammon and on Moab and on all who have the ends of their hair cut, who are living in the waste land: for all these nations and all the people of Israel are withoutcircumcision in their hearts.
(BBE)

Ezekiel 28:10
Your death will be the death of those who are withoutcircumcision, by the hands of men from strange lands: for I have said it, says the Lord.
(BBE)

Ezekiel 31:18
Whom then are you like? for you will be sent down with the trees of Eden into the lowest parts of the earth: there you will be stretched out among those withoutcircumcision, with those who were put to the sword. This is Pharaoh and all his people, says the Lord.
(BBE)

Ezekiel 32:19
Are you more beautiful than any? go down, and take your rest among those withoutcircumcision,
(BBE)

Ezekiel 32:21
The strong among the great ones will say to him from the underworld, Are you more beautiful than any? go down, you and your helpers, and take your rest among those withoutcircumcision, and those who have been put to the sword.
(BBE)

Ezekiel 32:25
They have made a bed for her among the dead, and all her people are round about her resting-place: all of them withoutcircumcision, put to death with the sword; for they were a cause of fear in the land of the living, and are put to shame with those who go down to the underworld: they have been given a place among those who have been put to the sword.
(BBE)

Ezekiel 32:26
There is Meshech, Tubal, and all her people, round about her last resting-place: all of them withoutcircumcision, put to death by the sword; for they were a cause of fear in the land of the living.
(BBE)

Ezekiel 32:28
But you will have your bed among those withoutcircumcision, and will be put to rest with those who have been put to death with the sword.
(BBE)

Ezekiel 32:29
There is Edom, her kings and all her princes, who have been given a resting-place with those who were put to the sword: they will be resting among those withoutcircumcision, even with those who go down to the underworld.
(BBE)

Ezekiel 32:32
For he put his fear in the land of the living: and he will be put to rest among those withoutcircumcision, with those who have been put to death with the sword, even Pharaoh and all his people, says the Lord.
(BBE)

Ezekiel 44:7
To have let men from strange lands, withoutcircumcision of heart or flesh, come into my holy place, making my house unclean; and to have made the offering of my food, even the fat and the blood; and in addition to all your disgusting ways, you have let my agreement be broken.
(BBE)

Ezekiel 44:9
For this cause the Lord has said, No man from a strange land, withoutcircumcision of heart and flesh, of all those who are living among the children of Israel, is to come into my holy place.
(BBE)

Subtopics

Circumcision

Circumcision was Performed by Persons in Authority

Circumcision was Performed by the Heads of Families

Circumcision was Performed in the Presence of the Family

Circumcision was Performed with Knives of Flint

Circumcision was Performed: Even on the Sabbath Day

Circumcision was Performed: On Males Home-Born and Bought

Circumcision was Performed: On the Eighth Day

Circumcision without Faith, Vain

Circumcision without Obedience, Vain

Circumcision: A Designation of Christians