The Rabbinical Council of America (RCA), the largest group of Orthodox rabbis in the world, in light of the pending directive of the New York City’s Health Department for parents to sign statements of informed consent prior to the performance of “metzitzah be-peh” (direct oral suction of the wound) as part of the traditional Bris Milah (circumcision), states:
Many Jewish legal authorities have ruled that direct oral suction is not an integral part of the circumcision ritual, and therefore advocate the use of a sterile tube to preclude any risk of infection. The RCA has gone on record as accepting the position of those authorities. Nevertheless, the RCA respects the convictions and sensitivities of those in the Orthodox Jewish community who disagree with this ruling and joins in their deep concern about government regulation of religious practices. The RCA urges these groups to voluntarily develop procedures to effectively prevent the unintended spread of infection.
The RCA supports the recent call of the Agudath Israel of America to New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and the New York Health Department that, instead of unilaterally imposing regulations, they collaborate with Orthodox Jewish leadership to develop protocols to address health concerns.
Rabbi Shmuel Goldin, the RCA President, summarized his organization’s position. “The act of circumcision is a precious and cherished ritual for the Jewish community, one which initiates our sons into the religious covenant. The RCA maintains that parents should use methods, in strict conformity with Jewish law, which enable them to hand down our religious legacy to a new generation safely and appropriately.”
(Press Release From RCA)
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4 Responses
This is a very weak statement. It is disappointing the RCA wasn’t strong in their support of those who practice metzitza b’peh, against government intrusion into a religious practice.
Looks like the RCA wants to be political about this. This is a non political issue we will not give up a half inch we will not talk discuss or reason with these people the answer is no and as the saying goes from Charleston Heston “from my cold dead hands”
Sounds as if the RCA’s opinion is that currently, MBP is being practiced in an irresponsible way, which is far from the truth.
Even if they feel that way, they should not be expressing it in a public statement, which only gives support to the mayor’s position. in effect, the RCA’s statement is counterproductive to its stated goal.
Perhaps if Mohelim agreed to say, biannual screenings, the RCA would be more for it.
Why not have a Mohel screened for infectious diseases? What does Agudah have to lose?