How are birth and childhood viewed in Islam?
In accordance with tradition, soon after birth the father of the child whispers the adhan (call to prayer) in the ears of the newborn. This act, signifies that the child has been born into a community centered around prayer and worship of the Creator. Also in accordance with the tradition, a ritual known as aqiqah is conducted for both male and female newborns among many Muslims. The birth-hair of the newborn is shaved off to signify a new phase of life outside the womb. The aqiqah is usually performed on the seventh day after birth, though it may be done later. In addition, a goat or lamb is typically sacrificed for a feast of thanksgiving. During the feast, family and friends pray that God blesses the child with good health, happiness, and protects her or him from all physical harm and evil influences. After birth or in early childhood, male children are circumcised in accordance with the Sunnah. The circumcision may be seen as a symbolic act, performed in homage to the great sacrifi
