Flagellation
Flagellation is the act of whipping (Latin flagellum, "whip") the human body. 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. 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).. There are also other specialised instruments for beating, including rods, switches, and the cat-o-nine-tails.
The Flagellation refers in a Christian context to the Flagellation of Christ, an episode in Jesus' physical degradation that led 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.
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.
The composer Percy Grainger was a famous flagellant.