Islamic Perspective on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): Understanding the facts

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a deeply concerning issue that has sparked international debate. Understanding the Islamic perspective on this topic is crucial, especially as many forms of FGM are practiced under the influence of cultural and religious beliefs. This article aims to provide an accurate and clear understanding of how Islam addresses this issue.

Understanding the Nature of FGM

Female Genital Mutilation, more commonly referred to as FGM, encompasses a variety of practices that involve removing or altering female genitalia for non-medical reasons. It is often equated with circumcision, but it is essential to understand the different types of FGM, as they range from minor procedures to severe and complex surgeries.

Types of FGM

Types 1 and 2: These are the most widespread practices, involving partial or total removal of the clitoral hood and the labia minora. Type 3: This involves narrowing the vaginal opening through stitching or other means, often without cutting the clitoral hood. Type 4: This category includes all other harmful procedures that do not involve cutting but cause genital injury.

The Islamic Perspective on FGM

It is important to note that the authentic Hadith related to female circumcision is well-documented and refers specifically to the partial removal of the clitoral hood. Shiekh Muhammad Saed El-Badawi, an Ahle Hadith/Salafi scholar, has stated that the Hadith in question refers to a specific type of minor procedure.

The Authentic Hadith

Abu Dawood, a respected Hadith collector, narrated the following Hadith from Umm Atiyyah al-Ansaariyyah:

A woman used to do circumcision in Medina, and the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said to her: “Do not go to the extreme in cutting, that is better for the woman and more liked by the husband.”

This Hadith was confirmed as authentic by scholars such as Al-Albani, who included it in his collection of authentic Hadith, Saheeh Abi Dawood.

The Scope of the Hadith

The Hadith specifically refers to the partial removal of the clitoral hood, a procedure often likened to clitoral hood reduction, which is a common and minor procedure in Western countries. Many female celebrities and actresses choose this procedure for aesthetic and health reasons. However, it is crucial to recognize that this practice is not in line with the more severe and harmful types of FGM.

Islamic Scholars' Interpretation

Muslim scholars have interpreted the Hadith to mean that the Prophet (PBUH) was advocating for a conservative approach to circumcision, emphasizing the importance of preserving the natural state of the female genitals. This is in line with the overall Islamic principle of maintaining bodily integrity and health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the practice of clitoral hood reduction, which is the only acceptable form of female circumcision according to Islamic scholars, does exist in Islam, it is essential to distinguish this from the harmful and severe forms of FGM, which are strictly prohibited. These more severe forms are often practiced in African countries due to cultural and tribal practices, not religious ones.

Keywords: Islam, FGM, Female Genital Mutilation, Clitoral Hood Reduction, Circumcision