היום יום

Since Torah was given, the correct sequence[1] is: First, removal of the orla[2] of the body, then of the tongue, then of the heart - deed, speech, then thought.

Our father Avraham, who lived prior to the giving of the Torah, however, first recognized his Creator - thought; then he disseminated G‑dliness - speech; and finally circumcision[3] - deed.

Compiled and arranged by the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, of righteous memory, in 5703 (1943) from the talks and letters of the sixth Chabad Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, of righteous memory.

Of man's avoda.

Lit. "foreskin." The layer of dullness, insensitivity. Compare Devarim 10:16 "You shall circumcise the orla of your hearts."

Removal of the orla.

הסדר לאחר מתן תורה הוא: הסרת ערלת הגוף, הלשון, הלב - מעשה דבור מחשבה, אברהם אבינו שהיה קודם מ"ת [מתן תורה] הרי בתחילה הכיר את בוראו - מחשבה, אח"כ [אחר כך] פרסם אלקותו, - דבור, ואח"כ [ואחר כך] מילה - מעשה.