flagellants - empire

thingiverse

Flagellants were a group of people who lived during the Middle Ages and believed that self-flagellation was a way to atone for their sins. They used whips or cords to beat themselves, often until they bled, as a form of penance. The practice was seen as extreme by many, but it was also a way for flagellants to show devotion to God. Flagellants were known to carry large crosses with them and would parade through the streets, whipping themselves in public. This spectacle drew attention from both the faithful and the skeptical, who saw it as a demonstration of their commitment to their faith. The practice of self-flagellation dates back to ancient times, but flagellants took it to an extreme level during the Middle Ages. Their behavior was not without controversy, however. Some saw them as charlatans or heretics, while others viewed them as true believers. Flagellants believed that by inflicting pain on themselves they could purify their souls and become closer to God. They also believed that this practice would bring about a second coming of Christ. Despite the controversy surrounding flagellants, the practice of self-flagellation continues to this day in some forms. In many countries, pilgrims whip themselves as part of a ritual to show devotion to a particular saint or deity. In some parts of the world, people still whip themselves as a form of penance for their sins. This practice is not unique to flagellants, however, and can be seen in various cultures around the globe.