Circumcision of Jesus

Circumcision of Jesus

The Circumcision of Jesus is a significant event in the New Testament and is celebrated as a feast in the Christian liturgical calendar. According to the Gospel of Luke, Jesus was circumcised eight days after his birth, in accordance with Jewish law. This event is commemorated by various Christian denominations and holds theological significance as it marks Jesus' first shedding of blood and his formal induction into the Abrahamic covenant.

Biblical Account

The account of Jesus' circumcision is found in Luke 2:21:

"And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb."

This passage highlights the adherence of Mary and Joseph to Jewish customs and the importance of naming in Jewish tradition.

Theological Significance

The circumcision of Jesus is seen as a fulfillment of the Law of Moses and a sign of Jesus' full humanity. It is also interpreted as a prefiguration of the Passion, where Jesus' blood would be shed for the salvation of humanity. The event underscores the Incarnation, emphasizing that Jesus was born into a specific cultural and religious context.

Liturgical Celebration

The feast of the Circumcision of Jesus is celebrated on January 1st in the Roman Catholic Church and some Protestant denominations. In the Eastern Orthodox Church, it is celebrated on January 1st as well, according to the Julian calendar. The feast is often associated with the Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus, reflecting the importance of Jesus' naming and identity.

Artistic Depictions

Throughout history, the circumcision of Jesus has been a popular subject in Christian art. It is often depicted in Renaissance and Baroque paintings, highlighting the ritualistic and communal aspects of the event. Artists such as Giotto di Bondone and Peter Paul Rubens have created notable works depicting this scene.

Also see

• Presentation of Jesus at the Temple
• Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus
• Jewish customs in the time of Jesus
• Incarnation (Christianity)

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