Qur'an, Hadith and Scholars:Female Genital Mutilation: Difference between revisions

Female Genital Mutilation or the circumcision of women (Arabic: ختان المرأة) is the practice of cutting off part (or parts) of the outer labia and vulva, including part or all of the clitoris, of women. Female Genital Mutilation also includes the practice of Infibulation, in which the outer labia are pared back and the cut edges stitched together. When this heals it forms a seal that covers both the openings of the vagina and the urethra.

Female Genital Mutilation is found amongst many cultures in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia. The aim and effect of the practice is to lessen the pleasure women get from various sex acts, thus in theory tamping down on their libido and making them more faithful wives. Popular discourse on the matter often paints it as purely a cultural artifact of traditional cultures, with no connection to religion. In point of fact, though, many [[Sahih]] [[Hadith]] exist supporting and even commanding the practice, and numerous fatwas have been issued both supporting and commanding the practice within the Islamic community.