Isn’t circumcision a requirement for being Jewish?
While circumcision has been a normative practice for centuries, a child born to a Jewish mother is considered Jewish regardless of circumcision status. Moreover, Jewish identity is multifaceted and can’t be reduced to a single ritual. Today, many Jewish families are finding new ways to welcome children that reflect their values while honoring their heritage.
Is Bruchim trying to convince Jews to stop circumcising?
No. Bruchim exists to serve those who already feel uncertain about circumcision or who have decided not to circumcise. Bruchim’s work is to support non-circumcising Jews in Jewish life, and to educate about the rich diversity of Jewish perspectives on circumcision and its alternatives.
Can’t non-circumcising Jews just stay quiet? After all, people don’t advertise not keeping kosher or not observing Shabbat.
Unlike keeping kosher or observing Shabbat, circumcision is a highly visible and often publicly marked ritual in Jewish life—especially at life cycle events like brit milah. For families who choose not to circumcise, openness can help build community, reduce stigma, and create space for honest conversations within families and the broader Jewish world. This isn’t about advertising or drawing attention; it’s about ensuring that families don’t feel marginalized or pressured to hide an important choice.
Why are some people involved with Bruchim critical of circumcision?
Many individuals who support or work with Bruchim arrived here because they have personally struggled with the issue of circumcision—either as parents, as people who were circumcised themselves, or as Jewish individuals grappling with tradition and ethics. It’s natural that some have developed strong personal views and speak out accordingly. Their experiences and perspectives help fuel the passion behind our work.
Is Bruchim anti-Jewish or anti-tradition?
Not at all. In fact, most Bruchim supporters are deeply committed to their Jewish identity and values. We believe Jewish tradition can evolve, and that meaningful Jewish life is possible—and thriving—even when some longstanding rituals are reexamined or reinterpreted.
Is Bruchim a political organization?
No. Our work is not aligned with any political party or agenda. Our supporters come from across the political spectrum. What unites them is a commitment to inclusion, choice, and Jewish continuity. There’s room at Bruchim for anyone, regardless of political affiliation, who believes Jewish identity does not hinge on a single ritual.
Does Bruchim take a position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
No. As an organization, our mission is narrowly focused on supporting Jewish families who choose not to circumcise and advocating for their inclusion in Jewish life. We recognize that our community holds a wide range of personal views on geopolitical issues, and we strive to keep our space focused, respectful, and inclusive of that diversity.
Does Bruchim advocate for legal bans or restrictions on circumcision?
No. We exist to expand cultural and religious acceptance—not to engage in legislative or political efforts for or against circumcision laws.
Bruchim uses terms that I don’t agree with, such as “brit shalom” and “assigned male at birth” — why?
Bruchim is a diverse community, and we don’t expect everyone to share the same vocabulary or worldview. We’ve had to make language choices, and it’s inevitable that they won’t satisfy everyone. We hope you’ll recognize that Bruchim’s focus isn’t politics — it’s people. We welcome a diverse range of Jewish families: traditional, secular, interfaith, LGBTQ+, and others.
Who can sign up to be in Bruchim’s Inclusion Directory?
Bruchim’s Inclusion Directory is specifically for Jewish institutions, institutional leadership, clergy, and officiants who support the full inclusion of families who choose not to circumcise. By joining the directory, these individuals or organizations are stating that they welcome and respect Jewish families making this choice, and that they are committed to helping them fully participate in Jewish life.
Why isn’t my synagogue, rabbi, Jewish group, etc. listed in Bruchim’s Inclusion Directory?
Our directory includes only those who have actively chosen to join and publicly affirm their support for families who choose not to circumcise. If your synagogue or rabbi isn’t listed, it may be because they haven’t opted in yet or have chosen not to participate. Listings are voluntary. If you’d like your synagogue or clergy to be listed, please encourage them to learn more and consider joining the directory.
If I give Bruchim the name of my synagogue or Jewish group, can Bruchim ask if they’d like to be listed in the Inclusion Directory?
Yes. Bruchim is happy to reach out to synagogues, clergy, and officiants upon request. We always approach these conversations respectfully and understand that participation is completely voluntary. Our goal is to build a supportive and welcoming network without pressuring anyone.
