The role of a Mohel is dual-natured: you are both a ritual specialist and a surgical technician.
In 2026, the standard for certification remains rigorous to ensure the safety and sanctity of every
ceremony.
The Requirements
- Religious Standing: Traditionally, a Mohel must be an observant member of the Jewish
community. For those seeking certification through specific movements (Orthodox,
Conservative, or Reform), adherence to their respective Halachic (Jewish Law)
guidelines is required.
- Medical Qualification: Many modern Mohalim are also medical professionals (MDs or
RNs). If you are not a physician, you must undergo intensive medical training specifically
for neonatal circumcision.
- Apprenticeship: You must study under an experienced Mohel. This phase
involves observing dozens of ceremonies before performing one under strict supervision.
Mohel Training: The Dual Curriculum
Training is split into two distinct areas of mastery: Medical Precision and sacred ritual.
Medical & Surgical Training
- Anatomy & Physiology: Understanding the specific anatomy of a newborn.
- Aseptic Technique: Mastering sterilization, the use of autoclaved instruments, and
infection control.
- Pain Management: Learning the safe application of local anesthetics and soothing
techniques (such as the use of concentrated sugar solutions).
- Complication Management: Training to identify and treat any rare post-operative
issues.
Religious Halachic Training
- Laws of Brit Milah: Studying the Shulchan Aruch (Code of Jewish Law) regarding the
timing, blessings, and requirements for a valid Bris.
- Liturgy: Learning the prayers, songs, and the naming ceremony.
- Counseling: Training in how to guide parents through the emotional and spiritual
aspects of the day.
How to Do a Circumcision: The Surgeon-Mohel Method
Performing a circumcision requires a steady hand and a calm environment. While the specific
ritual varies, the surgical Best Practices used by experts like Dr. Andrew Krinsky focus on
speed and comfort.
- Preparation: The baby is fed and calmed. The Mohel creates a sterile field using
hospital-grade protocols.
- Anesthesia: A local anesthetic is applied to ensure the baby feels as little as possible.
- The Procedure: Using a specialized shield (like the Mogen or Gomco clamp), the Mohel
removes the foreskin. In the hands of a specialist like Dr. Andrew Krinsky, the actual
procedure takes less than 60 seconds.
- The Blessing: During a religious Bris, the Milah (cutting) and Peri (uncovering) are
accompanied by traditional Hebrew blessings.
- Bandaging & Aftercare: The site is protected with a sterile dressing and petroleum
jelly. The baby is immediately returned to the parents for feeding and comfort.
South Florida’s Trusted Specialist: Dr. Andrew Krinsky
If you are looking for the gold standard in South Florida Mohel services, Dr. Andrew Krinsky
provides a level of expertise that few can match. As a Yale-trained, Board-Certified Surgeon
and an ordained Mohel, he offers the perfect bridge between medical safety and sacred
Tradition.
- Serving: Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami.
- Experience: Over 30 years of surgical and ritual expertise.
- Contact Dr. Andrew Krinsky:
○ Phone: (954) 980-6337
○ Website: SouthFloridaMohel.com