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The commandment for circumcision on the eighth day, as given in the Bible, is found in Genesis 17:10-14. This ritual, established as part of God’s covenant with Abraham, holds both religious and scientific significance. To understand why circumcision was commanded on the eighth day, we must explore the biblical context, the medical implications, and the theological symbolism associated with this practice. Additionally, we’ll discuss Alexander Schmidt’s contributions to the understanding of blood clotting and how it relates to the timing of circumcision. Throughout this exploration, we’ll draw upon references from the Bible.
Biblical Context
1. Genesis 17:10-14 (NKJV):
“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 you shall be circumcised in the flesh of your foreskins, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between Me and you. He who is eight days old among you shall be circumcised, every male child in your generations, he who is born in your house or bought with money from any foreigner who is not your descendant. He who is born in your house and he who is bought with your money must be circumcised, and My covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant. And the uncircumcised male child, who is not circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin, that person shall be cut off from his people; he has broken My covenant.”
In this passage, God establishes circumcision as a sign of the covenant between Him and Abraham’s descendants. It is to be performed on every male child on the eighth day of life, marking their inclusion in the covenant community.
Medical Implications
1. Blood Clotting
Research has shown that infants undergo significant physiological changes in blood clotting factors during the first week of life. While newborns have lower levels of vitamin K, a key component in blood clotting, these levels rise steadily during the first week, reaching peak concentrations around the eighth day.
2. Vitamin K Levels
Vitamin K plays a crucial role in the blood clotting process by activating proteins responsible for coagulation. Infants are born with low levels of vitamin K, and they rely on dietary intake and gut bacteria to produce it. However, these sources may be insufficient to meet the body’s needs immediately after birth, resulting in a temporary vulnerability to bleeding disorders.
3. Optimal Timing
The eighth day after birth is considered the optimal time for circumcision due to the peak levels of vitamin K, which enhance blood clotting and reduce the risk of bleeding complications. On the eighth day, the amount of prothrombin present actually is elevated above one-hundred percent of normal—and is the only day in the male’s life in which this will be the case under normal conditions. If surgery is to be performed, day eight is the perfect day to do it. Vitamin K and prothrombin levels are at their peak.
Performing the procedure earlier or later may increase the likelihood of bleeding disorders or other complications. Holt and McIntosh, in their classic work, Holt Pediatrics, observed that a newborn infant has “peculiar susceptibility to bleeding between the second and fifth days of life…. Hemorrhages at this time, though often inconsequential, are sometimes extensive; they may produce serious damage to internal organs, especially to the brain, and cause death from shock and exsanguination” (1953, pp. 125-126).
S.I. McMillen, M.D., in his book None of These Diseases (2000) shows that pain caused by circumcising later in life can last for up to a week. However, newborns, on the other hand, are very resilient. So the best time is to circumcise is in the first 2 weeks of life. This reveals a divine fingerprint.
Alexander Schmidt’s Contribution
Alexander Schmidt, a German researcher in the 19th century, made significant contributions to the understanding of blood clotting. His research laid the foundation for modern studies in hemostasis (the process of blood clotting) and coagulation disorders. Schmidt’s work helped elucidate the complex mechanisms involved in blood clot formation and the role of vitamin K in coagulation.
Biblical Significance
While Schmidt’s research occurred long after the biblical era, his findings provide scientific support for the timing of circumcision on the eighth day. The correlation between vitamin K levels and blood clotting reinforces the wisdom of God’s commandment regarding circumcision, highlighting the divine understanding of human physiology and the meticulous care with which God established His covenant with His people.
Theological Symbolism
1. Covenant Significance
Circumcision served as a visible sign of the covenant between God and His chosen people, symbolizing their separation from the surrounding nations and their commitment to obedience and faithfulness.
2. Spiritual Cleansing
In addition to its physical significance, circumcision carried spiritual symbolism, representing the removal of sin and impurity from the heart. The Apostle Paul later elaborated on this spiritual dimension, emphasizing the circumcision of the heart as a sign of true obedience to God.
Romans 2:28-29 (NKJV):
“For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God.”
Conclusion
The commandment for circumcision on the eighth day, as given in the Bible, reflects both divine wisdom and medical insight. This practice, established as a sign of the covenant between God and His chosen people, carries theological significance in symbolizing obedience, faithfulness, and spiritual cleansing.
The timing of circumcision on the eighth day aligns with the physiological changes in blood clotting factors, as elucidated by scientific research, underscoring the intricate design of the human body and the divine wisdom inherent in God’s commandments. As believers reflect on the significance of circumcision, they are reminded of God’s faithfulness in establishing His covenant and His care for His people, both spiritually and physically.
In His service,
BibleAsk Team