Embodying Tradition and Ascribing Meaning: Israeli Jewish Atheists Choosing to Circumcise Their Sons

אתאיזם ברית מילה זהות יהודית-ישראלית חילונים טקסים עמיות יהודית ריטואלים

The article investigates a striking paradox: Why do Israeli Jewish atheists, who explicitly reject religious belief, still choose to perform circumcision (Brit Milah) on their sons? Using a "lived religion" framework, Friedman explores the meanings these parents ascribe to this physically intrusive ritual. The study reveals that their choice is driven not by faith or divine command, but by a desire to embody tradition, maintain a connection to Jewish peoplehood, and ensure continuity for future generations. The author argues that for these atheists, Jewish identity and knowledge are derived from marking the body (somatic) rather than from a declaration of faith. The ritual becomes a way to belong to the collective history and culture, bypassing theology.