Ruling on Female Circumcision

This content is extracted from the book "500 Questions and Answers for Women", based on the fatwas of the scholars of Haramain and translated by Hafiz Abdullah Saleem.

Question 1​

What is the ruling on circumcision for girls?

Answer​

Circumcision for women was a known Sunnah during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). However, this Sunnah applies only to women who require circumcision. For those who do not have a need for it, circumcision is not prescribed.

(Shaykh Muhammad Nasiruddin Al-Albani, رحمه الله)

Question 2​

Is circumcision for women obligatory or Sunnah?

Answer​

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) encouraged women to undergo circumcision and instructed the one performing it to avoid exaggeration during the procedure. The ruling on female circumcision varies by region due to physiological differences.

In some countries, the part of the female genitalia that may require circumcision is visible and prominent, while in colder regions, it may not be visible or prominent at all. Therefore:

• If there is a part that warrants circumcision, it should be performed.
• If there is no such part, it is unnecessary.

(Shaykh Muhammad Nasiruddin Al-Albani, رحمه الله)

Question 3​

Is female circumcision permissible, and is there any Hadith regarding it?

Answer​

Alhamdulillah, circumcision for women is considered recommended (mustahabb). It is an honorable act for women, while for men, it is obligatory (wajib).

Female circumcision was a common practice during the pre-Islamic era (Jahiliyyah), and the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) endorsed its continuation with moderation. As narrated by Al-Hakim and Al-Tabarani, the Prophet (ﷺ) said to a woman performing circumcision:

الختان سنة للرجال مكرمة للنساء

(“Circumcision is a Sunnah for men and an honorable act for women.”)
[Da’if: Musnad Ahmad, 1/669]

Summary​

The majority of scholars and researchers agree on the following rulings:

1. For men: Circumcision is obligatory due to its significant hygienic and health benefits.
2. For women: Circumcision is an honorable and recommended (mustahabb) act but not obligatory. It is prescribed only if there is a need for it, based on regional and physiological differences.

And Allah knows best.

(Shaykh Muhammad Nasiruddin Al-Albani, رحمه الله)