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

ABSTRACT This article explores the meanings Israeli–Jewish atheists ascribe to their choice to circumcise their sons. Despite their lack of religious belief, many choose to engage in this practice, often seen as a typical representation of Jewish physical embodiment. Employing a lived religion approach, which emphasizes the multifaceted nature of human social experience, this study delves into meaning ascribed to their seemingly counterintuitive choice. The research reveals that their decision is driven by a desire to maintain connections to Jewish identity, tradition, peoplehood, and a sense of obligation to future generations. The findings suggest that religious knowledge and identity can be derived from the marking of the body, rather than a declaration of faith. This article contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between religious practices, cultural identity, and individual choices beyond the particular case, highlighting the ways in which disbelieving individuals engage with religious traditions and rituals.