Circumcision in the Bible was a physical sign of God’s covenant with Abraham and his descendants. It represented separation unto God, covenant obedience, and identification with the promises given to Abraham.
The command is first given in Genesis 17:10–11:
“This is My covenant which you shall keep, between Me and you and your descendants after you: Every male child among you shall be circumcised… and it shall be a sign of the covenant between Me and you.”
Circumcision was required of all male Israelites and any male who wished to join the covenant community (Genesis 17:12–14). It was a mark of belonging and faithfulness to the God of Israel. Failure to obey this command was considered a breach of covenant.
Under the Law of Moses, circumcision remained a requirement (Leviticus 12:3). Even Jesus was circumcised on the eighth day (Luke 2:21), fulfilling the Law. However, the Scriptures always pointed to a deeper meaning. Deuteronomy 10:16 says:
“Therefore circumcise the foreskin of your heart, and be stiff-necked no longer.”
This shows that physical circumcision was meant to reflect a heart consecrated to God, cut off from sin and committed to His ways.
In the New Testament, circumcision became a major point of contention. Some Jewish believers taught that Gentiles must be circumcised to be saved, but the apostles firmly rejected this. Paul taught in Galatians 5:6:
“For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.”
Circumcision is not required under the New Covenant. Romans 2:29 affirms:
“But he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit…”
While circumcision remains part of the Abrahamic covenant and Jewish identity, it is not a requirement for salvation. What matters now is a new heart created by faith in Christ, not a mark in the flesh.
