How Abraham Knew Where to Circumcise From God's Covenant Hint

Midrash Tanchuma Buber, Lech Lecha 27:1

Curated by Arthur·Translated by Maggid (Beta)·

"And I will make My covenant between Me and you" (Genesis 17:2). Rabbi Hanina ben Pazzi said: Abraham did not know from where he was to be circumcised. The Holy One, blessed be He, gave him a hint and told him from where he was to be circumcised, as it continues, "and I will multiply you" (Genesis 17:2) — from the place from which you are fruitful and multiply. Bar Kappara said: Abraham expounded a kal va-chomer (an argument from minor to major). Just as trees — from where are they obligated in regard to the foreskin (orlah)? From the place where they produce fruit. So too I, from the place where I produce fruit I am obligated to be circumcised.

Themes

CovenantAbraham

Biblical References

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Book of JubileesCovenant of Abraham of IsaacIn this ancient text, which some consider to be part of the broader Jewish apocrypha, we find a pivotal moment concerning Abraham, his wife Sarah, and a promiseApocalypse of AbrahamGod Commands Abraham to Offer Sacrifice for a RevelationThe voice came again. Twice it called his name: "Abraham, Abraham!" "Here I am." "It is I. Fear not, for I am before the worlds, a mighty God who has created thApocalypse of AbrahamGod Promises Abraham Descendants Like the StarsThe Eternal Mighty One said: "Abraham, Abraham!" "Here I am." "Look down at the stars beneath your feet. Count them for me. Make known to me their number." AbraApocalypse of AbrahamGod Reveals That All of History Was Planned in AdvanceAbraham asked: "O Eternal, Mighty One! What is this picture of the creatures?" God answered: "This is my will with regard to those who exist in the divine worldApocalypse of AbrahamThe End of the Age and the Coming of God's Chosen OneAbraham asked again: "How long a time is an hour of the Age?" God answered: "Twelve years have I ordained of this ungodly age to rule among the heathen and in yApocalypse of AbrahamGod Foretells Abraham's Descendants in ExileThe vision was nearly complete. God spoke His final words to Abraham, circling back from the cosmic future to the personal promise that had started everything.