TURKISH CIRCUMCISEE

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TURKISH CIRCUMCISEE

A Turkish boy is dressed for the circumcision ceremony Date: circa 1720

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Media ID 20147333

© Bubblepunk

1720 Ceremony Circumcision Dressed Initiation

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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures the moment of a Turkish circumcision ceremony from the early 18th century. The young circumcisee, dressed in traditional attire, sits on a velvet cushion as an elder holds a tray bearing the necessary instruments for the ritual. Surrounded by a group of men, the scene exudes an air of solemnity and reverence. Circumcision is an ancient and deeply rooted custom in Turkish culture, signifying the transition from boyhood to manhood. The ceremony, known as "Sünnet" or "Şevket," is typically performed between the ages of seven and twelve, depending on the family's preference and the child's readiness. The ceremony itself is a complex and intricate affair, involving various rituals, prayers, and symbolic gestures. The circumcision is performed by a skilled barber or a religious leader, using a sharp, curved knife called a "Zünhü." The boy's genitals are cleaned and anesthetized with a mixture of honey and rose water before the procedure. Once the circumcision is complete, the boy is given a new set of clothes and a small amount of honey to eat, symbolizing the sweetness of life. The ceremony is followed by a festive feast, where family and friends gather to celebrate the boy's new status as a man. This photograph offers a rare and fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural traditions of the Turkish people, providing a window into the past and a reminder of the enduring significance of rites of passage in human society.

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