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The brit is performed eight days after birth. While the number seven symbolizes the creation of the universe in seven days, the number eight expresses that which is beyond this world. The brit allows the newborn baby to connect with something that transcends the worldly, namely Torah and mitzvot. With their help, he can act to repair the world.
Even if the eighth day following the birth is Shabbat or a Jewish holiday (Yom Tov), the brit is normally performed then. However, if a brit needed to be delayed past the eighth day, it does not supersede Shabbat or Yom Tov. For example, a brit is delayed because the baby is sick or weak, and the doctors are concerned it might endanger him. In such a case, even if the go-ahead for the brit is given on Shabbat or a holiday, it is performed on the following weekday. (If a baby is systemically ill, the brit takes place only a week after the recovery.) Additionally, if a baby is born via Caesarian section, the brit does not supersede Shabbat or Yom Tov.
Brit mila is performed during the day, i.e., between sunrise and sunset. It is preferable to have a minyan present. A qualified, God-fearing, professional mohel (circumciser) should be chosen, who will instruct the parents about what they need to do before and after the brit. It is customary for the attendees to stand during the brit to honor the baby and the mitzva. It is also customary to dress for a celebration and to follow the ceremony with a festive mitzva meal. Since the brit repairs and enhances the body – by revealing all the good– it is appropriate to celebrate by fueling the body with fine food.
