MONASTIC PENITENTIAL SCOURGE, 7 CHAINS

This metal monastic penitential scourge, originating from an ancient monastery in northern Spain, is an instrument of penance intended for self-flagellation. Used in an ascetic context, it served to voluntarily inflict pain on the body as a sign of contrition and humility, recalling the sufferings of Christ.

The object consists of a small chain extended by a ring, allowing it to be wrapped around the wrist or held firmly. From this ring extend several long, intertwined metal chains, ending in small cylinders wrapped in wire. These metal weights are equipped with sharp points, designed to intensify the effect of each blow on the skin.

The visible oxidation of the metal attests to its antiquity and repeated use. When employed, this scourge was applied to the back or shoulders, causing controlled pain and open wounds that accompanied prayer and meditation. Each movement of the wearer transformed suffering into an act of purification, imprinting the body with a profound spiritual discipline.

The arrangement of its chains and the distribution of its weight made it a flexible and extremely effective instrument, where each strike was amplified by the momentum of the movement. Its use was a true test of endurance, reflecting a faith in which self-denial and pain were seen as paths to spiritual elevation.

Today, this scourge remains a striking testament to the practices of bodily mortification that characterized certain religious orders. It illustrates a time when faith was experienced through physical ordeal, and suffering was seen as a means of atoning for sins and drawing closer to the divine.

PERIOD : 19th century
DIMENSIONS : 45cm
SIZE : 17.7"

A scourge, an instrument of penance similar to a small whip, has been used by adherents of certain Christian denominations such as Anglicans, Lutherans, and Roman Catholics within the spiritual practice known as mortification of the flesh.

Flagellation, an ancient tradition associated with extreme forms of asceticism, has been adopted by some religious figures as a means of spiritual purification and self-mortification. This intense form of corporal discipline is considered an act of penance to atone for sins. Some believers see flagellation as a way to strengthen their connection with God and to experience the suffering of Christ. However, it should be noted that this practice is not widespread across all religious traditions and often generates controversy due to its marginal nature.