NAS Word Usage – Total: 36

1. circumcised
   1. the act or rite of circumcision, “they of the circumcision” is a term used of the Jews
      1. of Christians gathered from among the Jews
      2. the state of circumcision
   2. metaph.
      1. of Christians separated from the unclean multitude and truly consecrated to God
      2. the extinction of passions and the removal of spiritual impurity

What Does Peritome Mean in Greek in Context of the Bible?

To understand “peritome” in the Greek Bible context, we first define it. Peritome (περίτομη) translates to “circumcision” in English. It refers primarily to the act of cutting around, particularly relating to the removal of the foreskin from male infants or adult males.

The significance of peritome goes beyond mere physical practice; it carries deep cultural and spiritual implications throughout the biblical narrative. Circumcision served as a covenant sign between God and the people of Israel. In Genesis 17:10-14, God commanded Abraham to perform circumcision as a symbol of their unique relationship. Therefore, peritome stands as a vital concept in understanding identity, faith, and community among the Israelites.

The Importance of Circumcision in the Old Testament

Defining the Covenant

In the book of Genesis, circumcision is introduced as a key point in God’s covenant with Abraham. This practice set the Israelites apart from other nations. When God established this covenant, He told Abraham that every male in his household should be circumcised. This act cemented their status as God’s chosen people and was a reminder of their commitment to Him.

The Role in Identity

Circumcision held immense significance for the Israelites. It was not just a medical procedure; it was an essential part of being Jewish. Throughout the Old Testament, the act of circumcision became a physical marker of one’s identity. It symbolized obedience to God’s commands and, by extension, a person’s belonging to the community of faith.

The Connection to Holiness

In addition to identity, circumcision relates to the concept of holiness. In Leviticus 12:3, the act is described as a way to achieve purity after childbirth. This ties into the larger theme of holiness in the Scriptures, where rituals and sacrifices are often required to maintain a state of purity before God. Thus, peritome signified a pathway to being set apart for divine purposes.

The New Testament Perspective on Peritome

The Shift in Understanding

As we move into the New Testament, the meaning of peritome evolves, particularly through the teachings of Jesus and His apostles. With the advent of Christ, the necessity of physical circumcision as a mark of faith began to be questioned. As outlined in Acts 15, early Christians debated whether Gentile converts needed to be circumcised. The advice from church leaders pointed to faith in Christ as the essential requirement, indicating a shift from physical rites to spiritual belief.

Paul’s Teachings

The Apostle Paul played a significant role in redefining the understanding of circumcision. His letters emphasize faith rather than law. In Galatians 5:2-6, Paul explicitly states that if one accepts circumcision, they may be falling away from grace. He argues that true identity in Christ surpasses the need for physical circumcision, focusing instead on faith working through love. This was revolutionary for the early church, moving away from strict adherence to the Law and embracing grace.

Spiritual Circumcision

In this shift, the concept of spiritual circumcision emerges. Colossians 2:11 speaks of being “circumcised with a circumcision made without hands,” which refers to the transformation of the heart rather than a physical act. This spiritual circumcision signifies a deeper, inward change that reflects one’s relationship with God.

The Cultural Implications of Peritome

Community and Belonging

During biblical times, circumcision symbolized not just personal faith but communal identity. The Israelites used it as a vital connection point, a way of including individuals within the community of believers. This importance continued into the New Testament, as the early Christians navigated inclusion criteria for new believers.

Conflicts and Resolutions

The topic of circumcision led to significant disagreements among early Christians. The Council of Jerusalem (Acts 15) sought to unify the church by establishing that grace, not the Law, defined one’s relationship with God. This decision shaped the early Christian community and reflects the ongoing checks and balances regarding cultural practices and faith.

Conclusion: The Lasting Legacy of Peritome

In summary, peritome, meaning “circumcision,” carries substantial theological meaning throughout the Bible. Beginning as a physical sign of the covenant with Abraham, it evolved into a transformative symbol of faith with the teachings of Jesus. The shift from external rituals to inward belief reflects an ongoing dialogue in understanding identity, community, and holiness in a believer’s life.

The legacy of peritome remains relevant today as we reflect on our usage of cultural practices in expressing faith. It’s essential to focus on the deeper messages our rituals convey and to understand their biblical foundations.

Common Questions Related to What Does Peritome Mean In Greek In Context Of The Bible

Q. What is the literal translation of peritome in Greek?
A. Peritome literally translates to “circumcision” in Greek, meaning “to cut around.”

Q. Why was circumcision important in the Old Testament?
A. Circumcision was crucial in the Old Testament as it symbolized the covenant between God and His people, marking them as set apart.

Q. How does the New Testament view circumcision?
A. In the New Testament, circumcision is seen as less important than faith in Jesus Christ, emphasizing spiritual transformation over physical acts.

Q. What is spiritual circumcision?
A. Spiritual circumcision refers to an inward change of heart and faith in God, as opposed to the physical act of circumcision.

Q. Which scripture first mentions circumcision as a command?
A. Circumcision is first mentioned in Genesis 17:10-14, where God commands Abraham to circumcise male children as a sign of covenant.

Q. How did Paul view the need for circumcision among Christians?
A. Paul argued that requiring circumcision for salvation could lead people away from grace, emphasizing faith in Christ instead.

Q. What was the outcome of the Council of Jerusalem regarding circumcision?
A. The Council concluded that Gentile believers did not need to be circumcised or follow the Jewish Law to be saved.

Q. How did circumcision symbolize community for the Israelites?
A. Circumcision marked individuals as part of the Israelite community, representing deeper faith and belonging among God’s chosen people.

Q. Can circumcision still hold value in modern Christianity?
A. While the physical act is seen as unnecessary for salvation, discussions around cultural practices and their meanings continue in modern Christianity.

Q. What does 1 Corinthians 7:18-19 say about circumcision?
A. In these verses, Paul teaches that whether one is circumcised or not does not matter; rather, keeping God’s commands is what truly counts.