A group of
Turkic men perform
khitān, or male
circumcision carried out as an
Islamic rite, ca. 1865–72. Ritual circumcision is not mandated by the
Qur'an, but serves to introduce males into the Islamic faith, and works as a sign of belonging to the wider Islamic community. However, it is not a condition for converting to Islam or carrying out religious duties.
Photo: Unknown; Restoration: Lise Broer