Flagellation

\nFlagellation is the act of whipping (Latin flagellum, "whip") the human body. Specialised implements for it include rods, switches, and the cat-o-nine-tails.

Table of contents

1 Disciplinary use, and torture 2 Association with religion 3 Erotic use 4 References and further reading 5 External link

Disciplinary use, and torture

Flogging is an approximate synonym that was probably derived from flagellum in the English navy, where flogging was a common disciplinary measure that became associated with a seaman's manly disregard for pain— a barbarian virtue that was picked up in English schoolboy slang by the end of the 17th century. In the Roman Empire, flagellation was often used as a prelude to crucifixion, and in this context is sometimes referred to as scourging. Whips with small pieces of metal or bone at the tips were commonly used. In addition to causing severe pain, the victim would be made to approach a state of hypovolemic shock, due to loss of blood.

Association with religion

The Flagellation refers in a Christian context to the Flagellation of Christ, an episode in Jesus' physical degradation leading to the Crucifixion. (See Passion). The fanatic practice of mortification of the flesh for religious purposes includes the Christian Flagellant movements of the 13th century, the present-day members of Opus Dei, and many Shias during the festival of Ashura.

Erotic use

In the sexual sub-culture of BDSM, "flagellation" involves beating the submissive partner. Such a flogging is not always delivered with forceful blows, sometimes it is done with very soft blows repeated a great many times so as to make the skin sensitive, so that the softest impact can eventually feel very intense. Flogging for erotic thrill, typically with implements such as whips, paddles, or canes, has been has been called the "English vice." It is discussed with other displaced eroticism at the entry for paraphilia (see also Spanking). See also: Algolagnia

References and further reading

• Andrew Conway. The Bullwhip Book. Greenery Press, 2000. ISBN 1890159182.\n*Joseph W. Bean. Flogging. Greenery Press, 2000. ISBN 1890159271.

External link

\n*"Forensic and Clinical Knowledge of the Practice of Crucifixion" by Dr. Frederick Zugibe \n