Jewish boys who are not circumcised have been accepted by others and have had bar mitzvahs. In fact, training programs for Reform and Conservative mohelim require a valid medical license for certification. Consequently, there is no reason to believe that circumcisions performed by mohelim are less painful for the infant. Some Jewish parents who have observed their son's circumcision have described it as extremely distressing for them and have regretted their decision for years. Jewish law acknowledges the remote possibility of death resulting from the surgery and allows for exemptions when other children in the family have died from the effects of circumcision.
Circumcision is inconsistent with significant Jewish laws and values.
For example, the human body must not be altered or marked. The Torah also prohibits the causing of pain to any living creature. Since circumcision causes extreme pain, some Jews believe that circumcision is not ethical. Jewish values place ethical behavior above doctrine. If you agree with what you read here, please contact us and be counted.