It is difficult in some languages to find a satisfactory term for circumcision. If the practice of circumcision is unknown, a descriptive expression often seems quite vulgar. If circumcision is known, direct references to such a practice may be taboo, especially in such context as the Scriptures. In general, there is a tendency to employ some kind of euphemism—for example, “the cutting of the skin” (without specifying what part of the skin is cut), “a mark in the flesh,” or “a cutting of the body.” In some instances an even more generic expression has developed by usage—for example, “the Jews cut them.” This term might be regarded as being entirely too general in meaning, but which in at least one language it is used to refer specifically to circumcision. In any event, the practice of circumcision must be identified clearly in this type of context, but an explanation of precisely what is involved may be placed in a glossary with appropriate cross-referencing.

In some languages one does not obey the Law but “obeys what the Law says” or “does what the Law says one ought to do.”

Your circumcision is of value may introduce problems because it may be necessary to use a verb in speaking of circumcision. The first two clauses of verse 25 may therefore be rendered as “if you do what the Law says you should do, it is good if you are circumcised” or “if you do what the Law commands, then the fact that you are circumcised will help you.”

You might as well never have been circumcised (see Jerusalem Bible “you might as well have stayed uncircumcised”) is the meaning of Paul’s statement “your circumcision becomes uncircumcision” (Revised Standard Version).

You might as well never have been circumcised may be rendered in some languages as “it is just the same as though you had not been circumcised” or “your being circumcised is nothing.”

Quoted with permission from Newman, Barclay M. and Nida, Eugene A. A Handbook on Paul’s Letter to the Romans. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1973. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .