What is the ruling regarding male circumcision (Khitān)?
Chapter on Utensils
Al-Mughni
Book of Purification
Primary text
Circumcision is obligatory (Wājib) for men and is considered a matter of honor (Mukramah) for women, though not obligatory for them. This is the position of many scholars, including Ahmad, who views it as more essential for men due to issues with cleanliness if uncircumcised. Evidence for its obligation stems from the necessity of covering the private parts, which implies that permission to view the uncircumcised male's 'awrah would not be granted unless circumcision were required. Furthermore, it is a distinguishing sign (Shi'ār) of Muslims, placing it in the same category as other obligatory signs. If an adult accepts Islam and fears harm from circumcision, it is waived, similar to the omission of Ghusl (ritual bathing) or Wudu (ablution) under threat of harm.
Supporting text
Ibn Abbas strongly emphasized its requirement, stating that an uncircumcised person has neither Hajj nor prayer, though Al-Hasan permitted acceptance of Islam without immediate circumcision, noting that early converts were not examined or circumcised. Imam Ahmad insisted that a Dhimmi accepting Islam must undergo circumcision, even if elderly, citing the tradition that Abraham was circumcised at eighty years, based on the verse commanding adherence to the religion of Abraham (Quran 22:78).