Brit Milah Day

Take a deep breath…
Now that the baby is healthy and weighs enough for the Brit Milah, after you’ve consulted with the mohel, a pediatrician, or a nurse from the Tipat Halav clinic—who examined the baby and explained how to prepare him for the circumcision—it’s time to get ready.

Just before the Brit, you should bathe the baby, disinfect the circumcision area, and dress him in a two-piece outfit to allow easy undressing during the ceremony. Make sure to finish feeding the baby, and you may also say a special prayer for his wellbeing and success.

What to bring to the Brit Milah ceremony?

  • Pillow for carrying the baby – A white-covered bed pillow; an embroidered pillow specially purchased for this purpose; or a family heirloom pillow passed down through generations.
  • Elijah’s Chair – A large, decorated chair upon which the sandak (the person holding the baby during the circumcision) sits. As the baby is brought to the chair, the mohel says: “This is the chair of Elijah the Prophet, of blessed memory.”
    The connection between the Brit and Elijah originates from the Biblical story in which Elijah complains to God about the people of Israel forsaking His covenant. Due to this, the Midrash teaches that Elijah is required to be present at every Brit Milah to witness that the covenant is upheld. Many synagogues (especially Sephardic) offer free borrowing of an “Elijah’s Chair,” but any comfortable chair for the sandak will suffice.
  • Decorated cloth diaper (“Wimpel”) – According to custom, a beautifully embroidered cloth diaper is used during the Brit. Afterward, it is saved and later used to wrap a Torah scroll during the boy’s Bar Mitzvah or wedding.
  • Two prayer shawls (Tallitot) – For the baby’s father and the sandak. If you do not have a tallit, the mohel or event hall may provide them. Some traditions require the father to also wear tefillin during the ceremony (not on Shabbat).
  • Kippot (skullcaps) – If you wish guests to cover their heads during the ceremony, bring enough kippot for everyone.
  • Wine and kiddush cup – As in every Jewish ceremony, the blessings are recited over wine. Bring a new, unopened bottle of sweet wine, and a cup. The wine may also be used to help calm the baby.
  • Baby’s bag – Don’t forget to bring the baby’s bag, including personal and medical items. You may need cloth diapers, disposable diapers, wipes, pacifier (even for babies unused to it), calming bottle, and a change of clothes. Cotton swabs dipped in wine can also soothe the baby. Bring the ointments and soothing creams requested by the mohel, pain relievers, soap, gauze pads, and disinfectants.
  • Fragrant herbs – In Mizrahi traditions, guests bless the aromatic branches during the ceremony, just as in the Havdalah service. The scent symbolizes life, love, and renewal. Common herbs include myrtle or rosemary, but any natural fragrance such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, citron peel, or mint leaves is suitable.
  • Ceremony booklets – For speakers, readers, and guests. Ensure the blessings are printed with vowel marks. It’s advisable to photocopy the relevant verses and distribute them to guests to follow the ceremony. You can find the blessings in any prayer book.
  • Camera / Photography accessories – In case you didn’t hire a photographer.