What does it mean to circumcise the heart in the Bible?

In the Bible, there is a concept of “circumcising the heart,” which involves a spiritual transformation rather than a physical one. This idea is mentioned in several passages of the Old Testament, and it emphasizes the importance of inner transformation and devotion to God.

The concept of circumcising the heart is first mentioned in Deuteronomy 10:16, which says, “Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no more stiffnecked.” This verse is part of a larger passage that emphasizes the importance of following God’s commandments and serving Him with sincerity and devotion.

In other passages, such as Jeremiah 4:4 and 9:26, the idea of circumcising the heart is further developed. These verses suggest that the physical act of circumcision is not enough to demonstrate one’s commitment to God, and that true devotion must come from the heart. Circumcising the heart involves removing the “foreskin” of sin and selfishness, and dedicating oneself to serving God with sincerity and humility.

The concept of circumcising the heart is also echoed in the New Testament, where it is associated with the idea of spiritual rebirth and transformation. In Romans 2:29, the apostle Paul writes, “But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.” This verse suggests that true devotion to God comes from an inward transformation, rather than from outward acts or rituals.