A group of Turkic men perform khitān, or male circumcision carried out as an Islamic rite, ca. 1865–72. Ritual circumcision is not mandated by the Qur'an, but serves to introduce males into the Islamic faith, and works as a sign of belonging to the wider Islamic community. However, it is not a condition for converting to Islam or carrying out religious duties.Photo: Unknown; Restoration: Lise Broer