1,116. Standing at a Bris

163:2 The practice is for the guests at a bris to stand as per II Kings 23:3, "the people stood at the covenant." This excludes the sandek, who sits holding the baby. After the father has recited the bracha (see 163:1, above), the others respond "amen," followed by, "Just as he has been brought into the covenant, so may he enter into Torah, marriage and good deeds."

163:3 The mohel must know the laws of circumcision and he must check that the baby is healthy. The midwife must also be sure to inform the parents if she sees any signs of illness in the baby.