I used to be catholic, but in 16 years of church-going and 13 years of catholic schooling, I never understood the concept of mortification. I mean, I understand that it is enduring physical hardships in order to clean the soul, but I don't see why people would do that instead of just praying and doing good works.
Also, why does the church condemn self-injury (cutting, burning, et cetera) but allow (even promote, as it is extolled in some accounts of saints) very serious mortification? Where is the line between sin and virtue, between holiness and insanity?
I don't understand why it is considered acceptable to flagellate oneself, or go on excessively long fasts, or wear metal spikes that dig into your leg, or bang your head against a rock. I did much less in my teen years and was almost committed to a mental hospital!
Please help me understand this. Mind, I'm not in any way being anti-catholic... I just am very curious.
2007-07-07
11:16:23
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6 answers
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asked by
Rat
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Religion & Spirituality