“And he that is eight days old shall be circumcised among you, every man child in your generations, he that is born in the house, or bought with money of any stranger, which is not of thy seed.”
Context: Genesis 17 marks a significant event in the life of Abram (later renamed Abraham) when God establishes a covenant with him and promises to make him the father of many nations. In this chapter, God institutes the practice of circumcision as a sign of the covenant.
The Sign of Circumcision: In verse 12, God instructs Abraham that every male child, whether born in his household or bought as a servant, should be circumcised when they are eight days old. This command applies to all future generations as a perpetual sign of the covenant.
Symbolism of Circumcision: Circumcision was a physical act of removing the foreskin of the male reproductive organ. Symbolically, it represented a cutting away of the flesh, signifying a separation from the sinful nature and a consecration to God. It was a visible reminder to the Israelites of their special relationship with God.
Inclusion of Servants: The verse mentions that even male servants who were not descendants of Abraham (not of thy seed) were to be circumcised if they were part of his household. This emphasizes the inclusiveness of the covenant, extending the benefits and responsibilities to all members of Abraham’s household, irrespective of their genetic lineage.
Faith and Obedience: The act of circumcision required faith and obedience from Abraham and his descendants. By adhering to this command, they demonstrated their willingness to follow God’s instructions and submit to His covenant.
Spiritual Application: In the New Testament, circumcision is replaced by baptism as a sign of the covenant between God and believers. Baptism represents the inward cleansing and renewal of the heart through faith in Jesus Christ. Just as circumcision marked a separation from the old life, baptism symbolizes a new life in Christ.
Promises and Blessings: The act of circumcision and the covenant it represented brought various promises and blessings from God to Abraham and his descendants. These included the promise of a great nation, land inheritance, and the assurance of God’s presence and protection.
In conclusion, Genesis 17:12 introduces the practice of circumcision as a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham. It symbolizes a separation from the sinful nature, faith, obedience, and the inclusion of all members in Abraham’s household. While circumcision was a physical act in the Old Testament, it finds its spiritual fulfillment in the New Testament through baptism as a sign of the new covenant in Christ.
