Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Circumcision”
The biblical word “Circumcision” traces back to Hebrew / Greek (mul (Hebrew), peritome (Greek)), where it meant “The cutting away of the foreskin; the sign of the covenant between God and Abraham”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “The surgical removal of the foreskin; metaphorically, the removal of sin and purification of the heart”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Hebrew/Greek
Hebrew / Greekmul (Hebrew), peritome (Greek)The cutting away of the foreskin; the sign of the covenant between God and Abraham
Hebrew mul (H4135), 'to cut, to circumcise'. Greek peritome (G4061) from peri (around) and tome (cutting). Commanded in Genesis 17:10-14 as eternal covenant sign for males.
Medieval Latin / Church
LatincircumcisioA sacramental rite of initiation into God's covenant; later interpreted as spiritual circumcision of the heart
Latin circumcisio from circumcidere (to cut around). Medieval theology transitioned from literal practice to 'circumcision of the heart' (Romans 2:29) as the true mark of faith.
Modern English
EnglishcircumcisionThe surgical removal of the foreskin; metaphorically, the removal of sin and purification of the heart
From Old French and Latin circumcisio. Maintains both medical and theological meaning; central to Jewish identity and Christian theology of the covenant.