Mohel facts for kids

A mohel is a special person in the Jewish community. They perform a religious ceremony called a circumcision. This ceremony is for Jewish baby boys. It happens when the baby is eight days old. This practice is part of Jewish law, known as Halakha.

What a Mohel Does

During the ceremony, a mohel uses special tools. Traditionally, a special knife is used. Sometimes, a clamp might be used instead. In some Jewish groups, like Orthodox Judaism, only men can be mohels. However, other Jewish groups allow women to become mohels too.

The Brit Milah Ceremony

The ceremony itself is called a Brit milah. Some people, especially those from European Jewish backgrounds, might call it a "bris." This name comes from Yiddish, a language spoken by many European Jews. During the Brit Milah, the mohel says special prayers. The baby's family and friends are usually there. These prayers welcome the new baby boy into the Jewish faith and community.

Images for kids

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  Mohel booklet from Hegenheim (F), dated between 1805 and 1849. Today in the Jewish Museum of Switzerland’s collection.

See also

In Spanish: Mohel para niños