Convert Circumcising Himself

Question

Dear Rabbi,

I have been pondering for sometime now, and no amount of convincing will change my mind. I want to be a Jew. But I am uncircumcised, and all the online advice for Jewish male converts regarding circumcision are for those who already have been circumcised.

The very least I could learn would be what it would cost to get a mohel who operates on adults. As I have very little money and need to plan this in advance, to make sure I could save the money. Or if perhaps I could take it into my own hands and circumcise myself, like Avraham did.

 

Sorry if this question is a simple, or has already been answered. But I really would like some advice.

 

Thank you,

A future Jew

0

Answers

  1. The Just Ask! - AskTheRabbi.org Team

    A circumcision must be done by someone who is both an expert in the physical aspects of circumcision and also an expert in all the various laws that pertain to circumcision. That means that the circumcision MUST be done by a certified Mohel who comes extremely well recommended and who has plenty of experience with performing adult circumcisions.

    Under normal circumstances that might be a little expensive but I have never heard of a Bet Din (Jewish court) that wouldn’t allow someone to convert simply because they did not have the ability to pay the Mohel. The best thing to do is to speak with the Bet Din that is overseeing your conversion and to explain to them the problem. If they feel that you are truly sincere in your desire to convert, I am sure that they will take care of the matter when they feel that the time is right.

    Best wishes from the AskTheRabbi.org Team