F.A.Q.s

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Below you will find the most frequently asked questions about circumcision. If you would like these questions and answers read to you, visit my YouTube channel, sit back, listen and learn. If you still have questions, I'm more than happy to answer them. Simply reach out to me and start a conversation.

Who is a qualified Mohel?

A Mohel is an expert in the surgical techniques of circumcision, must be Torah-observant and well-versed in both the medical procedures and the religious laws and customs associated with a traditional circumcision ceremony.

Why choose circumcision?

Spiritual Considerations: Members of Abrahamic faiths broadly recognize circumcision as an act of covenant with the God of Abraham. Peoples of highly diverse cultures (including ancient indigenous communities of the western hemisphere) value circumcision as conferring enhanced spiritual sensitivity.


Hygienic & Prophylactic Considerations: Circumcision facilitates the maintenance of consistently good hygiene, prevents phimosis, and significantly reduces the risks of infections and cervical cancer for one's spouse.


Aesthetic Considerations: Most American males are circumcised, and it is generally recognized that the circumcised member is aesthetically enhanced. In addition, many fathers prefer that they and their boys share similar morphological features.

Is Circumcision Safe?

When performed under sterile conditions in the hands of an expert Mohel, the risks associated with circumcision are minimal. Waiting until adulthood, although still a low-risk procedure, does increase the risk of complications and alters the healing trajectory. If you think your son will ultimately be grateful to have been circumcised, please don’t wait for him to articulate interest.

Can we use your services if we are not Jewish?

Yes! Rav Weisman values the manifold benefits of circumcision and is happy to partner with you in giving your son the gift of circumcision.

Does my baby need a Vitamin K shot to receive his circumcision?

Remarkably, there is a unique surge of Vitamin K delivered via mother's milk as well as a surge in clotting factors such as thrombocin on the eighth day of life! God entrusts parents with the responsibility to choose wisely for their children and I respect parental choice. If you elected not to administer the K shot, please indicate that when filling out the consent form so I can be sure to apply topical Vitamin K to the initial bandages.

What is the best time to have a circumcision?

A ritual circumcision (bris) is typically conducted on the eighth day, in accordance with Biblical requirements. If the child is unwell, the bris should be postponed, prioritizing the child’s health.


The determination of whether or not to delay and for how long to delay, should be made in consultation with an expert Mohel. Modern medical trends can be permissive of circumcisions in circumstances that Jewish law would encourage greater caution and delay.


Common causes for postponing the bris include low birth weight, jaundice, respiratory distress, and eye infections.


A non-ritual circumcision can be performed on a healthy infant anytime from the day after birth up to, ideally, six weeks.

Does the baby cry and will it hurt my baby?

Yes, crying is a sign of health. However, the crying usually stops as soon as the baby is swaddled. Pain is minimal. While the procedure does involve some brief discomfort, the surgery's duration is typically seconds. Rav Weisman applies topical lidocaine and administers an oral sucrose solution which are effective and safe analgesics.

How do I care for my baby after the bris?

Please reach out directly for detailed and clear aftercare guidance. A tutorial and complementary aftercare kit will be provided to facilitate the healing process.

How long does it take to heal?

After the first few days, you will notice a soft yellow substance forming around the area. This is granulation tissue and is a normal part of the healing process. It is not an infection, so there is no need to be alarmed. The area should be fully healed in about one week.

When can I bathe my baby?

Provided that the umbilical cord has fallen off, you may gently bathe your baby in warm water 24 hours after the circumcision.

Can a Mohel advise on what Hebrew name is best?

Yes. Choosing a name for your baby can sometimes be one of the more challenging decisions for parents. A mohel can often assist in selecting the perfect name for your son.

Do you offer international services?

Yes! Based in Portland, Oregon, Rav Weisman is willing to travel far and wide to ensure each child can receive the gift of circumcision.

How much will it cost?

The pricing for circumcision is at prevailing rates which also factor in travel time. Please call for an exact quote. Financial considerations should not be a deterrent and I’m happy to set up a payment plan if it helps.

If you have any other questions, please feel free to reach out to me. I look forward to hearing from you.

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Rav Eliyahu Weisman brings expertise, dedication, and warmth to every circumcision he performs. Trained under some of the greatest expert Mohelim in the U.S., Rav Weisman has honed his skills to perfection, conducting numerous circumcisions across the country.