Flagellation

Prisoners whipped

William-Adolphe Bouguereau (1825-1905) - The Flagellation of Our Lord Jesus Christ (1880)

Supplice du Grand Knout

Johann Moritz Rugendas in Brazil 2

Scourged back by McPherson & Oliver, 1863, retouched

1847 disciplinary report re flogging, on the USS John Adams

Flagellation is the act of whipping or lashing the human body. It is often done as a form of punishment, religious devotion, or sexual gratification. The practice has been used in various cultures and religions throughout history.

Historical Context

Flagellation has been documented in many ancient civilizations, including Ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece, and Ancient Rome. In these societies, it was often used as a form of corporal punishment.

Religious Flagellation

In religious contexts, flagellation has been practiced by various groups as a form of penance or spiritual discipline. For example, in Christianity, some sects have used self-flagellation as a way to atone for sins. The Flagellants were a notable group during the Middle Ages who practiced public self-flagellation.

Christianity

In Catholicism, self-flagellation has been practiced by some monks and nuns as a form of penance. The practice is also associated with certain saints, such as Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Dominic.

Islam

In Islam, particularly among Shia Muslims, flagellation is practiced during the observance of Ashura, which commemorates the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali.

Punitive Flagellation

Flagellation has also been used as a form of judicial punishment. In many societies, criminals and slaves were whipped as a form of discipline. In some cases, it was used as a method of torture.

Modern Context

In contemporary times, flagellation is less commonly used as a form of punishment but still exists in some cultures and legal systems. It is also practiced in certain subcultures for sexual gratification, often referred to as BDSM.

Medical Implications

Flagellation can cause significant physical harm, including lacerations, infections, and long-term scarring. It is important to consider the medical risks associated with the practice.

Related Pages

• Corporal punishment
• Self-flagellation
• Flagellants
• Ashura
• BDSM
• Saint Francis of Assisi
• Saint Dominic