Pidyon haben is the Jewish ceremony that traditionally redeems a firstborn son by giving five silver coins to a kohen.
The Hebrew phrase means “redemption of the son.” The ritual is based on biblical passages concerning the firstborn and the Levites. It is generally observed when the firstborn son is born naturally and is not otherwise excluded by specific family circumstances.
The ceremony is usually held on the 31st day after birth, provided the child is healthy. The father presents five silver coins to a kohen, a descendant of the priestly family, and the kohen may return the child after receiving the redemption payment.
Pidyon haben is not the same as brit milah. Brit milah is the circumcision and naming ceremony traditionally held on the eighth day, whereas pidyon haben is a separate firstborn-redemption observance.