Islam does not prescribe female circumcision as a religious duty, and the practice is not rooted in the teachings of the Quran or authentic hadith.
Understanding the Hadith in Question
The hadith from Sunan Abi Dawud (5251) is often cited to suggest that female circumcision is a part of Islamic practice. However, scholars have noted that this narration is weak and not suitable for establishing religious obligations. The hadith mentions a conversation between the Prophet (PBUH) and a woman known to perform circumcisions, advising her to cut "lightly" without causing harm.
There is also a hadith from Sahih Muslim (349) that refers to the meeting of the two circumcised parts. This hadith is often misunderstood as endorsing the practice. In reality, it is describing a state of ritual purity after sexual relations, not prescribing any form of circumcision.
What the Quran and Authentic Sunnah Say
The Quran, which is the primary source of Islamic law, does not mention female circumcision at all. The silence of the Quran on this matter is significant, as it indicates that the practice is not considered a religious obligation or recommendation.
The authentic Sunnah, which includes verified sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), also does not provide any clear directive mandating female circumcision. The emphasis in Islam is on compassion and the well-being of individuals, especially in matters affecting health and dignity.
Scholarly Consensus and Cultural Practices
Many scholars agree that female genital cutting is not a religious requirement and caution against practices that can cause harm. The practice is more accurately seen as a cultural tradition in certain regions rather than a religious one. Islamic teachings emphasize the principle of "no harm," which is supported by a hadith from the Prophet (PBUH):
"There should be neither harming nor reciprocating harm."
Malik's Muwatta, Book 36, Hadith 31
In conclusion, Islam does not mandate female circumcision, and the practice should not be seen as a religious duty. It is crucial to differentiate between cultural practices and the core teachings of Islam, which prioritize compassion and the avoidance of harm.