Circumcision

Definition:

Circumcision is a surgical procedure in which the foreskin, the loose fold of skin covering the tip of the penis, is cut off.

Etymology:

The term “circumcision” comes from the Latin word “circumcisio,” which means “to cut around.” It is derived from “circum” (around) and “caedere” (to cut).

In Islam, circumcision of boys is known as “Khitan” or “Taharah.” The term “Khitan” comes from the Arabic root “khatana,” meaning “to cut.” “Taharah” means “purification,” reflecting the ritual’s significance in promoting cleanliness.

Description:

It is usually performed on the eighth day after the birth of a male child, in accordance with Jewish law as recorded in the Torah. This is the same reason why New Year’s Eve comes 8 days after the birth of Jesus, to symbolize his circumcision ceremony. Brit Milah marks the boy’s initiation into the Jewish community and his commitment to follow the religious commandments. During the ceremony, the boy is circumcised by a religious authority, usually a mohel. The circumcision is performed with a special knife called “milot.” The person who holds the baby during the circumcision, often a grandfather or godparent, is called a “sandek.”

There is no fixed age for circumcision in Islam, but it is commonly performed during infancy or early childhood. In some cultures, it may be done shortly after birth, while in others, it can take place at any time before puberty. The circumcision is performed by a qualified practitioner, often a doctor or a religious figure. The procedure involves the surgical removal of the foreskin. Circumcision is a Sunnah (tradition) of the Prophet Muhammad and is highly recommended (in Islam), though not obligatory according to most Islamic scholars.

It’s quite ironic that Jews and Muslims believe God is an intelligent designer, yet they believe God created males with a completely unnecessary organ that has to be removed. When actually the foreskin covers and protects the glans (head) of the penis. It acts as a barrier against dirt, bacteria, and other potential irritants. The inner foreskin is similar to the inside of the eyelid, providing a moist environment that protects the glans.

The foreskin contains a high concentration of nerve endings, making it one of the most sensitive parts of the penis. This sensitivity can contribute to sexual pleasure. Some studies and health organizations, like the American Academy of Pediatrics, suggest that circumcision does not negatively impact sexual function or satisfaction. But for example, a study published in BJU International found that the foreskin is highly sensitive and its removal can reduce overall penile sensitivity, and a study in the British Journal of Urology found that uncircumcised men reported greater sexual pleasure compared to their circumcised counterparts. The foreskin produces a natural lubricant called smegma, which helps to keep the glans moist and facilitates comfortable movement during sexual activity. The foreskin provides a natural gliding mechanism that can enhance comfort and pleasure for both partners by reducing friction.

In infancy, the foreskin is fused to the glans, which helps protect the developing penile tissue from irritation and infection.

Many advocates argue that circumcision makes genital hygiene easier and therefore can reduce the risk of various infections and diseases. Generally speaking, this might be accurate. However, the benefits must be considered in the context of overall hygiene and sexual practices. Good hygiene and monogamous relationships can mitigate some risks associated with the foreskin. For example, regular cleaning can help prevent infections and maintain genital health. Additionally, the presence of the foreskin itself does not inherently lead to higher infection rates if proper hygiene is maintained.

The Torah does not prohibit polygamy, although Rabbi Gershom issued a decree banning polygamy for Ashkenazi Jews in the 11th century, a prohibition intended to last for a thousand years and still observed by many today. Living a polygamous and unhygienic lifestyle can be the only argument for circumcision in this case. However, being unhygienic is generally not recommended by anyone.

The only argument that is actually valid for circumcision is the argument that circumcision can potentially reduce the need for medical interventions later in life, such as treatments for phimosis (a condition where the foreskin cannot be fully retracted over the glans) and other foreskin-related issues. Though medical professionals estimate only about 1% of people still have physiologic phimosis when they’re 16 or older, which does not make this a good argument at all.

Circumcision, while often performed for perceived medical benefits, carries potential risks and complications. Excessive bleeding can occur during or after the procedure. The surgical site can become infected, leading to localized or systemic infections. Despite pain management, some infants and adults may experience significant pain during and after the procedure. Improper healing can lead to the formation of scar tissue or the need for additional surgical intervention. Too much skin can be removed, leading to tension and discomfort. Too little skin can be removed, necessitating repeat surgery. The glans (head) of the penis can be accidentally injured during the procedure. Improper healing can cause the remaining foreskin to adhere to the glans. Narrowing of the urethral opening can occur, especially in infants, leading to difficulty urinating.

It is important to note that infant circumcision is performed without the individual’s consent. This may seem completely obvious, but most parents who choose to have their infant boys circumcised are clearly not thinking it through.

Articles:

Symbolism:

In Judaism, it is a key rite of passage that symbolizes the covenant between God and the Jewish people, as established with the patriarch Abraham. It marks the infant’s entry into the Jewish community and their identity as a Jew.

In Islam, it represents adherence to the teachings and practices of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Islamic faith. It marks the boy’s entry into the Muslim community and reinforces his identity as a Muslim.

In both religions it is seen as an act of physical and spiritual purification.

It is obvious that the symbolism of infant circumcision is actually how the belief in God and religion can make people do something so crazy as cutting the foreskin off the penis of their infant boy. It is also a symbol of how the child with such crazy parents is most likely going to end up just as crazy.

Religion:

Brit Milah is a direct commandment in the Torah (the Old Testament in the Bible) for male children, specifically in Genesis 17:10-14, where God makes a covenant with Abraham and commands Abraham to circumcise himself, and command for all male infants to be circumcised on the eighth day after birth.

Circumcision was practiced in the Arabian Peninsula before the advent of Islam and was incorporated into Islamic practice by the Prophet Muhammad. As Islam spread, circumcision became a common practice among Muslim communities worldwide, often blending with local customs and traditions.

Circumcision is not a religious requirement for most Christian denominations. However, some groups, such as the Coptic Christians and Ethiopian Orthodox, practice it for cultural and religious reasons. The New Testament reflects a shift away from circumcision as a requirement for Christians, emphasizing faith and baptism instead (Galatians 5:6, Acts 15).