In Islam, the term "third gender" often refers to individuals who are intersex, known as Khuntha in Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh). This term specifically applies to those who have both male and female reproductive organs (Uddin, 2017).
Understanding Khuntha
Definition
- Khuntha is the term used in Islamic law to describe individuals who are born with both male and female reproductive organs. It is essential to note that Khuntha is not about sexual orientation or gender identity, rather it refers specifically to physical biological characteristics.
Legal & Religious Considerations
- Islamic law (Fiqh) has specific guidelines to determine the gender of a Khuntha for legal purposes.
- Actions and decisions related to Islamic law, such as inheritance, marriage, and prayer, are determined based on this gender assignment.
Determining Gender
- The process of determining the dominant sex of a Khuntha involves careful examination.
- The process often takes into account biological factors, such as the functionality of the organs and other physical characteristics.
Key Points
- The concept of Khuntha is a religious term focused on biological sex, not gender identity or sexual orientation.
- Islamic jurisprudence aims to create a framework for those who are Khuntha to be fully included within Islamic Law.
- This classification and process ensures the person is treated fairly and accordingly under Islamic Sharia law.
- It is important to note that the terminology and practices may vary within different Islamic regions and schools of thought.
Comparison
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Khuntha | An individual born with both male and female reproductive organs (intersex). |
| Third Gender | In the context of Islam, a common way to refer to the Khuntha, particularly in modern discourse |
Reference:
- Uddin, M. (2017). Islamic Jurisprudence: An Introduction.
