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This communication presents a rabbinical debate regarding the naming of male children in synagogue services within Conservative Judaism. The study examines two opposing positions on whether boys who have not undergone proper ritual circumcision (brit milah) according to Jewish law should be permitted public naming ceremonies. Rabbi Simon argues against the Committee on Jewish Law and Standards' prohibition, contending that such restrictions alienate families from the faith and deprive them of meaningful religious experiences. His methodology involves analyzing various circumstances including properly circumcised children with limited hospital attendance, geographically separated families, interfaith considerations, and cases of halachic deviation. Simon advocates for inclusive practices that encourage Jewish identification rather than exclusionary policies. In response, Rabbi Neulander, representing the Committee, maintains that the traditional association between circumcision and naming ceremonies should be preserved to strengthen religious observance. The Committee ultimately ruled that only children circumcised according to Jewish law may receive synagogue naming, while improperly circumcised children require ritual rectification (hatafat dam) before naming. A minority dissented, with three members permitting home ceremonies and one allowing unrestricted naming. This discourse reflects broader tensions between traditional observance and pastoral accommodation in mid-20th century Conservative Judaism.

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Published 1956
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