Circumcision according to the Sunnah
For Muslim families, male circumcision is a practice rooted in the Sunnah, the teachings and example of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This guide explains its place among the practices of fitrah and the questions to discuss when arranging care.
What does khitan mean?
In this guide, khitan means male circumcision: removal of the foreskin covering the head of the penis. The hadith collections Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim include circumcision among the practices of fitrah, alongside everyday practices of cleanliness and personal care.
Families may encounter different words and explanations in religious and medical settings. If you are unsure what a particular service includes, ask the clinician to explain it plainly before making a decision.
Circumcision in the prophetic tradition
A hadith narrated by Abu Hurairah in Sahih al-Bukhari 5889 lists circumcision among the practices of fitrah taught by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Sahih Muslim 257a records the same tradition. These narrations explain why circumcision has a place in Muslim religious practice.
The cited fitrah narrations name circumcision without setting a particular day of life or specifying a surgical technique.
Religious views and personal circumstances
Muslim scholars have discussed the religious status of circumcision, and views on obligation can differ. Circumstances also vary, including a person's age, health and background. No single web page can give a ruling for every individual or family.
For a personal faith question, speak with a qualified imam or scholar you trust. A religious discussion can help you understand the tradition and relevant scholarly views, while a clinician can advise on medical suitability, timing and care.
When should circumcision take place?
Timing brings together a family's religious understanding and the person's medical circumstances. Ask a qualified imam or scholar about the guidance you follow, then discuss age, health and suitability with the clinician before arranging an appointment.
The cited fitrah hadith does not require circumcision on the seventh day. A preferred family date should be discussed with the clinician so that assessment, preparation and follow-up can be planned.
Choosing care with informed advice
Circumcision is surgery. The NHS explains that bleeding and infection are possible complications, and that anaesthetic options should be discussed with the doctor. The clinician should explain the proposed approach, expected recovery, possible risks and available aftercare so that you can make an informed decision.
The East London Mosque lists a Sunnah Circumcision Service operated by the independent London Surgical Centre in the LMC Business Wing. Its description connects modern clinical techniques with Islamic traditions. Ask the provider about its current arrangements, proposed method, pain relief and follow-up before booking.
Aftercare and recovery
Aftercare depends on the individual and the clinician's advice. Follow the care plan provided by the treating clinician, and contact them if you have concerns or are unsure what to do. Do not rely on general online advice in place of instructions for the person who has had the procedure.
The related pages below cover baby circumcision, adult circumcision and aftercare in more detail. For questions about arranging an appointment, use the website's WhatsApp, phone or email options.
Common questions
Does the hadith specify when circumcision should take place?
The cited fitrah hadith includes circumcision but does not prescribe an exact age or a fixed seventh day. For medical suitability and timing, speak with a clinician; for personal religious guidance, consult a qualified imam or scholar.
Is one modern circumcision device specifically required by the Sunnah?
The cited hadith does not name a modern device or surgical method. Ask the clinician to explain the approach they propose, including its risks and aftercare, and seek religious guidance separately if you have a faith question about it.
Where can I get advice about circumcision?
A clinician can discuss health, suitability, timing, anaesthetic and recovery. A qualified imam or scholar can discuss religious questions and differing scholarly views. Contact East London Circumcision for help with an enquiry about the Whitechapel service.
Sources
Content checked against the sources listed above on 10 October 2026. This is general information, not medical advice.