Circumcision (Sünnet)
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When the circumcision is completed, the young boy's "status" changes drastically: ribbons removed, they hold escort like kings on lavishly decorated beds, receiving compliments and gifts. Celebration of ritual circumcision is usually held after schools go on vacation or in the fall, close to the opening of schools. A boy who will be circumcised is called Sünnet Çocuğu (Child of Circumcision).
NOTE: It is appropriate to give a Cumhuriyet Altını (gold coin) or a watch as a gift to the boy in accordance to your relationship with him or his parents.
Tradition on Ritual Circumcision
Preparations for circumcision start early. An elaborate circumcision outfit and clothes for relatives of the child are bought by his father. A few days before the circumcision ceremony, he visits his relatives and neighbors in his circumcision outfit and kisses their hands. Every person whose hand is kissed customarily gives money to the boy. The circumcision hat is blue to protect him from evil eyes. In front of the hat a ribbon with the inscription Maşallah (Wonderful, May God avert the evil eye) is placed.
On the day of circumcision, guests come together and chant Mevlit and eat a meal while waiting for the arrival of the circumcised boy.
In villages in Anatolia, the young boy, before being circumcised, travels on horse back or by a procession consisting of cars, in and around the village. The boy is brought into the circumcision hall just before noon and does not dismount from his horse or get out from car until he receives money from his father. His father gives him a present and then circumcision ceremony starts.
During the circumcision ceremony the boy will have beside him a Kirve which is equivalent of a "Godfather" in Christianity. It is common to hear Oldu da bitti Maşallah (Well, it is all over and done) or Allahüekber (God is the greatest)
The boy who has just been circumcised wears a long and loose dress and is gently placed upon a very ornamented bed prepared in one corner of the home, to rest and recover. After having lunch, women and men customarily give presents to the child and stand beside his bed saying “everything remained in the past, you will gain your health soon”. Afterwards, the entertainment begins and continues often untel late in the evening.
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Latest comments about this article
By
Guest 18.10.2003
it is funny and interesting to read about the ritual as practised in your country.could have added pictures also to have better understanding.also would like to know whether it is chopping off or medical surgery, i mean the procedure.
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