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Male Circumcision in Iran
You can find useful information about Male Circumcision in Iran in the above Motion Graphic. The text below will give you additional information.There is no trace of male or female genital mutilation/cutting (also known as male or female genital mutilation FGM/C & MGM/C) in Iran’s historical records and documents, and from the available evidence, it is clear that circumcision was not practiced in Iran before the advent of Islam.According to hadiths and jurisprudential texts, ‘circumcision’ refers to the removal of all or part of the skin covering the glans. In traditional societies, circumcision, or the cutting of a child’s genitals, was performed together with a special ritual to reduce the fear and trauma of the child entering adulthood. However, in contemporary societies, where every person under the age of 18 years is considered a child and any modification to his (or her) body is therefore without consent and a violation of that child’s rights, this practice has received criticism. Circumcision is one of the oldest surviving types of surgery in the world today. It involves cutting all or part of the foreskin from the male penis. Circumcision (Arabic: khatan, ختان) first became popular among Egyptians and later among Arab Jews and Muslims.The root of the word khatan is khatn, which means to cut off the sheath of the tip of the penis (i.e. the skin covering the tip of the penis).An uncircumcised male person is called aghlaf/arghal/aghral, which means ‘clothed’.According to the Dehkhoda Persian dictionary, an uncircumcised person is commonly called namakhtoon.Circumcision is performed in many regions of the world using different methods and instruments, which shows the extent and frequency of this practice. In contemporary times, about a third of circumcised men in the world are circumstanced for religious, traditional, health and beauty reasons. It is interesting to note that circumcision is the most common surgery in the world for male babies.In Iranian society, information published about circumcision must take an approving perspective and emphasise the positive outcomes. There is no free flow of information for the general public to access about unwanted consequences and possible harms of the practice. There are four ways to perform circumcision on men. Historically, male circumcision was associated with religious practices and ethnic identities. In the two religions of Islam and Judaism, circumcision found a religious and mandatory position among adherents.According to analyses of existing Islamic hadiths and narratives and inquiries made of religious authorities, it seems that both Shiite and Sunni Muslims, referring to Verse 123 of Surah Nahl and Verse 161 of Surah An’am, hold that it is obligatory to maintain Abrahamic traditions, including circumcision. However, it appears that the religious tenets of Islam in relation to circumcision developed from hadiths and jurisprudence, which are grounded in the way of life and customs of the Jews of Medina during the time of the Prophet of Islam.Therefore, it can be argued that, while circumcision is a custom that was prevalent in the pre-Islamic era and entered the Islamic era with some restrictions, according to Islamic jurists and scholars, it is one of the requirements of the religion.Although there is broad agreement that circumcision is necessary, there are differences of opinion between the various Islamic schools of thought on the best time for circumcision and the best method of performing it. Circumcision (also known as male or female genital mutilation or cutting MGM/C) holds a significant place in Islamic traditions, reflecting both religious and cultural aspects. Understanding the rules and guidelines surrounding circumcision in Islam is essential for individuals seeking to deepen their knowledge of Islamic practices. In this guide, we explore the rules of circumcision in Islam, including its religious significance, the recommended age, and the cultural practices associated with this important rite of passage.Nowadays circumcision is typically performed by a trained individual, such as a doctor or a skilled practitioner, in a sterile environment. The procedure involves the removal of the foreskin, following established medical guidelines and practices. It is important to prioritise the health and safety of the individual undergoing circumcision, ensuring proper hygiene, anaesthesia (if necessary), and post-operative care to promote healing and minimise discomfort.
In addition to Islamic religious beliefs, which are the main reason for the spread of circumcision in Iran, geographical and regional customs and international relationships should not be ignored.Scholars put the origins of circumcision at around two thousand years ago in the area surrounding the Nile in ancient Egypt. Located in the Middle East, Iran has always had profound and extensive relations with Egypt, this source of circumcision. Thus, these three factors – Iran’s geographical region, its relationship with Egypt, and Islam – led to introductions of circumcision in different periods of Iranian history.
What is Male Circumcision?
Male Circumcision Statistics in Iran and the World
Types of Male Circumcision in Iran
Why Are Men Circumcised in Iran?
The Blade of Tradition in the Name of Religion: Research study on male circumcision in Iran is a work of research carried out in Iran by Kameel Ahmady and his team. The team interviewed a large number of people and experts in relation to claims that, in addition to religious pressures to perform circumcision, there are other motivations – health, medical, aesthetic, social and economic – that support its continued practice. The health and medical advantages of circumcision are frequently discussed in terms of its role in preventing diseases like HIV/AIDS, penile cancer and urinary tract infections.In explaining the social functions of circumcision, Ahmady considers how religion and ethnicity are accepted, how the patriarchy gives men a sense of gender identity, and how the interests of men are defended. In terms of circumcision’s economic functions, he discusses the circumcision market, cutters’ business motivations and the ‘medical mafia’ that benefits from circumcision, including cosmetic surgeons. Rules of circumcision in Islam
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Introduction
Kameel Ahmady is a British-Iranian researcher working in the field of social anthropology, with a particular focus on gender, children, ethnic minorities, and child labour. Kameel was born in Iranian Kurdistan (also known as East Kurdistan). He obtained his Master’s degree in Social Anthropology and Visual Ethnography from the University of Kent, UK. His academic pursuits include specialized courses in Middle Eastern Politics and Research Methods from other British institutions. Known for studying harmful traditions, Ahmady serves as both a supervisor and developer for his teamwork research publications in Farsi, Kurdish, and English. In 2017, he was honoured with “Honour” prize by the UK based IKWRO organization at the University of Law in London. Subsequently, in 2018, at George Washington University, Global P.E.A.C.E. foundation bestowed upon him the “Literature and Humanities” award in recognition of his contributions to the field. Among his group works are titles such as ” Conformity and Resistance in Mahabad,” ” Another Look at East and Southeast of Turkey,” “In the Name of Tradition,” “A House on Water,” “The Echo of Silence,” ” Traces of Exploitation in Childhood,” and more….
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FAQ About Male Circumcision
- Why do Muslims circumcise? Circumcision in Islam is considered a religious obligation for male Muslims. The practice is based on the Islamic teachings which emphasised the importance of circumcision as part of the fitrah (natural disposition) and cleanliness in Islam. It is seen as a symbol of purification and adherence to Islamic faith.
- What is the best age for circumcision surgery according to Islamic tradition? While there is no specific age prescribed for circumcision in Islam, it is commonly performed during infancy or early childhood. Many Muslim families choose to have their sons circumcised shortly after birth or before reaching the age of puberty. However, the exact timing may vary based on cultural traditions and individual family preferences.
- Why do Iranians circumcise? Some beliefs, norms, attitudes, and political and economic systems have played a role in the continuation of this traditional practice in Iran. Circumcision also known as Male Genital Mutilation/Cutting (MGM/C) is widely practised in Iran due to its religious significance, cultural traditions, and social expectations. It is considered a religious obligation for Muslim males, symbolising purity and adherence to Islamic teachings. Additionally, circumcision is deeply rooted in Iranian culture, preserving traditions and strengthening social cohesion. While health considerations and potential benefits may also influence the decision, the multifaceted motivations behind circumcision highlight its importance as a religious and cultural rite of passage in Iran.
- What are the benefits of and reasons for male circumcision? Only 20% of all men in the world are circumcised, most of them Muslims and Jews. Circumcision may be done for various religious, cultural, medical, aesthetic, social and economic reasons, usually upon parental request. However, circumcision has many critics who consider the practice to be a violation of a child’s rights and believe that circumcision is a form of mutilation that, alongside other physical and psychological harms, reduces sexual pleasure.
- What are the disadvantages of male circumcision? 80% of the world’s men have never been circumcised. Some opponents believe that penile sensation is almost halved after circumcision. Therefore, although the ‘medical mafia’ still prevents the free flow of information to the general public, the decision should be left to the child when he grows up. Some child-rights activists, based on the independent knowledge of medical science and statements by the World Health Organization, argue that the presence of the foreskin keeps the penis moist, protects the growing penis and enhances sexual pleasure due to the presence of many nerve receptors. Also, the foreskin helps to provide extra skin during erection and prevents the penis from abrasion and scarring during sexual activity. The foreskin of a baby protects the penis from ammonia and faeces in the diaper.
- Does circumcision reduce libido? There are contradictory pieces of evidence and opinions on the effect of circumcision on sexual activity. Some opponents believe that, after circumcision, the sensation of the penis is reduced by almost half. Some studies have concluded that uncircumcised people have better sexual experiences than circumcised people, the definitive point being that the foreskin has more sensitivity points for sexual stimulation – therefore, after circumcision, the sensitivity of the male penis to stimulation decreases. The foreskin is more pleasurable for both men and women during sexual activity, according to additional evidence.
The decision to circumcise is a personal one, and it’s essential to consider cultural, medical, and ethical factors while respecting the autonomy and informed consent of those involved.
The practice of male circumcision has been a subject of debate, with some advocating for its health benefits and others emphasizing the importance of individual choice and consent.
How can education and awareness campaigns help individuals and parents make informed choices about male circumcision, taking into account cultural, medical, and ethical aspects?
Medical research suggests that male circumcision can reduce the risk of certain infections and conditions, such as urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted diseases like HIV.
In some cultures and religions, male circumcision is a rite of passage or a religious requirement, while in other cases, it’s performed for hygiene or preventive health purposes.