Islam+Circumcision

Overview-
•The tradition began before the prophet Muhammad (from Jewish traditions) •It is a sacrifice to Allah •Circumcision is not mentioned in the Qur’an •Circumcision is mentioned in the hadith (oral traditions relating to the words and deeds of the prophet Muhammad) •Circumcision is practiced as a precedent to the prophet Muhammad, which is called the Sunnah •The main reason given for Islamic circumcision is (ritual) cleanliness •It is a considered a very important passage in a boys life to welcome him into manhood •Muslim Iranian boys must be circumcised if they are to participate fully in religious activities

Not Required-
•Is not a requirement for converting to a Muslim (unlike Jewish Circumcision which is required) •It is a matter of religious and scholarly debate

General information-
•Times for circumcision vary; a common time for circumcision is between the ages of six and eleven •Some Muslim boys go through circumcision when they have recited the entire Qur'an once through •However, in the middle class circumcision is done more in infancy •In Pakistan Muslims may be circumcised at any age from infancy to adulthood •While the actual event is taking place, one may hear praise of God •There is much festivity, with music, special foods, and many guests. •Afterward the boy will enter into full participation in Islamic ritual life