Typically, flogging is imposed on an unwilling subject as a punishment; however, it can also be submitted willingly for sadomasochistic pleasure, or performed on oneself, in religious or sadomasochistic contexts. This article will deal with the link between self-flagellation in Shi’ism and Christianity, particularly in Catholic societies.

Native American sun dances have sometimes involved piercing and suspension by flesh and some esoteric and mystic Sufi orders also practice various forms of self-flagellation.

Back in 1530, the Whipping Act was brought about in England which allowed for the whipping of thieves, blasphemers, poachers, and those who committed a crime or an offense, as well as those who were deemed insane.

Self-flagellation is the disciplinary and devotional practice of flogging oneself with whips or other instruments that inflict pain. In Sunni Islam, this vile savagery paganism is strictly forbidden (just like the depiction of saints is), not so in the Rafidi religion…