title: Rationalization of indigenous male circumcision as a sacred religious custom: health beliefs of Xhosa men in South Africa.
abstract: This article presents research findings based on the meaning of indigenous circumcision to Xhosa men in South Africa. In South Africa, male circumcision is a rite of passage from adolescence to adulthood. The country has experienced serious problems associated with the practice of this rite ranging from dehydration to death in the traditional "bush" circumcision schools. A qualitative, endogenous research
  
  
  METHODS
  "How do you experience having a son who is undergoing the circumcision rite?" The study revealed cultural circumcision as a "sacred religious practice" with five themes, namely (a) readiness of Xhosa families to engage in the circumcision ritual, (b) the act of circumcision and preparation for manhood, (c) the importance of symbolic purity during the circumcision ritual, (d) celebrating acquired manhood, and (5) aspects of manhood and the rejection of clinical care. Secondary to this are health promotion recommendations made for individuals involved in this ritual.
authors: University of Alberta. mavundla@ualberta.ca
authors: Thandisizwe Redford
authors: TR
authors: Mavundla
authors: Fulufelo Godfrey
authors: FG
authors: Netswera
authors: Brian
authors: B
authors: Bottoman
authors: Ferenc
authors: F
authors: Toth
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000884:Anthropology, Cultural; D002562:Ceremonial Behavior; D002944:Circumcision, Male / Q000208:ethnology*; D054521:Cultural Competency; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D054526:Men's Health; D012068:Religion and Medicine; D013019:South Africa