Circumcision — Meaning in the Bible
The removal of the foreskin, given to Abraham as the sign of the covenant. The New Testament debates whether Gentile believers must be circumcised.
Scripture in WEBWorld English Bible — Protestant Edition
What it means
God gave circumcision to Abraham as the sign of the covenant for every male in his household. Jesus and John the Baptist were circumcised on the eighth day. Genesis 17:9–14Luke 1:59Luke 2:21
Moses and the prophets spoke of circumcising the heart. The Jerusalem council decided that Gentile believers did not need to be circumcised, and Paul argued that what counts is faith working through love. Deuteronomy 10:16Jeremiah 4:4Acts 15:1–19Galatians 5:6
Key passages
- Genesis 17:9–14 — The sign of the covenant.
- Deuteronomy 30:6 — God will circumcise your heart.
- Luke 2:21 — Jesus circumcised.
- Acts 15:1–21 — The council decides.
- Romans 2:28–29 — Circumcision of the heart.
Study further
- Genesis 17 The sign given.
- Acts 15 The debate.