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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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

Punitive Flagellation[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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.