The origin of Female Genital Mutilation

Female genital mutilation has existed for over 2000 years. It is commonly believed that it originated in ancient Rome and Egypt. In the ancient Rome women were pierced in the genitals to prevent them from adultery. Other experts claim that it originated in ancient Egypt. It is said that pharaohs performed female genital mutilation to their slaves. And through the trade of goods it spread out to Africa.

Until this day the exact origin of female genital mutilation is unknown. It is often linked to the Islam, but there are no indications that FGM is prescribed by the Quran. There are for example Christian tribes who practice FGM. So we can established that the tradition is not so much a religious issue as it is more of ancient  custom that later on has intertwined with religion. Even though the tradition is mostly practiced by Islamic people, it does not mean that it is an Islamic tradition performed by all Muslims. For example FGM is not performed by Islamic countries such as, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Saudi-Arabia and many others.

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