I've seen video's and such of Monks flogging themselves and have always wondered why they were doing it.
I figure it's causing pain in order to control ones own mind or at least redirect it away from sinful thoughts.
Also what is it exactly they use to do this with, it looks like rope but I'm sure there is more to it.
2006-11-17 10:09:45 · 12 answers · asked by Sean 7 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Christianity, Islam, and many other religions condone self flagellation. I have seen Islamic men beating their backs with chains, and Christian ones with whips.
2006-11-17 10:12:33 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
It is like leather strips with sharp metal things at the ends that rip the skin- sorry, I don't know what it is called. You are right about why they do it, but it is ridiculous and I am sure God does not want anyone to do it. You can't beat out evil thoughts from the outside- and causing pain is not the answer to anything that is holy. Christianity does not condone self flagellation. It may be a Catholic thing, but has no basis in the teachings of Christ.
2006-11-17 10:15:27 · answer #2 · answered by catarina 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Some sects of Opus Dei practice self flogging, wear a cilice belt around their leg, etc as a reminder of the pain that Christ suffered for them and to punish themselves for the bad things that they have done throughout the day.
2006-11-17 10:35:22 · answer #3 · answered by country_girl 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Self-mortification is a powerful means of spiritual growth. Self-flagellation is a rather extreme example, granted. However, self-denial and self-mortification are surely valid and effective means of strengthening the will and overcoming the flesh. That's why the Christian Church has always recommended fasting, as does its holy book, even though it is unpleasant and causes us some measure of "pain" or at least discomfort. Denying ourselves what we desire, in matters that are not sinful, strengthens us in the ability to deny ourselves in matters that are sinful. The fundamental reason people give in to temptation is that they have not developed the ability to say no to themselves.
2006-11-17 10:24:46 · answer #4 · answered by PaulCyp 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Some catholics still do it to this day in the Philippines on easter, to repent there sins. They use like a dowel or other round object attached to a rope with sharp barbs on it. It is swung back and fourth from shoulder to shoulder ripping there backs to shreds. It is ended at the ocean where they jump in to cleans the wounds.
2006-11-17 10:19:27 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Many religions engage in self mortification of the flesh. It can be an act of contrition or atonement, or an offering.
Some of my relatives perform a very serious spiritual act called the Sun Dance, an offering and an invitation to wisdom.
2006-11-17 10:16:51 · answer #6 · answered by Gaspode 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Opus Dei- A sect of Catholicism. Though it is not as bad as was portrayed int he Da Vinci Code. And no Jesus wasnt married!
2006-11-17 10:23:19 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
I've seen that two I'm guessing that it is catholic because of monks but that seems a little bit harsh so perhapps it is a stereotype
2006-11-17 10:13:46 · answer #8 · answered by Lizzy 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋
They whip themselves to keep flies off their back, much like a horse does with its tail.
2006-11-17 10:13:44 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 3⤋
Catholicism did it... Not sure about the eastern orthodox, they might too.
Hmm... Pain is good monsieur?
2006-11-17 10:12:22 · answer #10 · answered by John S 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋