What is the ruling on circumcision, and what is the ruling on skinning the penis or the pubic area?
Circumcision is one of the practices of the fitra (primordial nature) and a symbol of Muslims. It involves only cutting the foreskin that covers the glans of the penis. As for removing the entire skin of the penis, this is forbidden, as it contradicts the noble Prophetic Sunnah, involves torturing the self, goes against ihsan (excellence) and gentleness, and may lead to destruction. As for the gathering of men and women to attend the circumcision and expose the boy's awrah (private parts), or the mixing of men and women, this is forbidden due to the exposure of private parts, fitna (temptation/strife), and contravention of Islamic law.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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