Sackcloth and whips: what methods were used at Easter to “fight against sin”

For the Catholic Church, the way to obtain forgiveness for sins has always been sacrifices, such as masses, confession, fasting or prayer penances. However, it was until the 15th century that the idea that the best way to be forgiven was physical punishment, due to the popularization of the processions carried out by the brotherhoods.

It was at that time that the penitent processions were consolidated and Holy Week became the most important time of the year to carry them out. Various instruments began to be used to carry out penances that required physical pain, including sackcloth and whips.

CILICIO

The sackcloth is a band of chains with tips that are tight to the flesh, to cause physical pain. It was initially used in Seville, Spain, during the processions organized by the brotherhoods and in Mexico it was used by the Brotherhood of Chargers of Our Father Jesus.

In Mexican territory, the tow used by the Spaniards to make the instrument was replaced by the ixtle. The faithful, who performed their penance by this method, previously confessed and received communication, and already during the procession they wore their faces covered all the time with a hood.

The hood, which is a hat with a conical shape, became popular in Spain in the 17th century and was used in red to evoke the blood shed by Christ. In Mexico, it is made with poplin or some similar fabric that allows it to withstand the hot climate of the time.

Its origin dates back to the Middle Ages, a stage where it was used by prisoners in the walk prior to their execution. That is why it is strongly linked to the Holy Inquisition and renowned artists have portrayed it in their works, one of them is Goya, who embodied in art the shame of the condemned who wore the hat.

LATIGOS

Whips began to be used for self-flagellation. Penance consists of carrying a heavy cross much of the way and during moments of rest, kneeling, praying and hitting the back of the body with the whip, causing it to bleed.

To fulfill the punishment using this tool, men must cover their faces, as well as bear their backs and chests uncovered. It is a representation of the scourges that Jesus Christ received before he was crucified and which has survived above all in America.

BRAMBLE STICKS

In addition to sackcloth and whips, since ancient times bramble sticks have been used at Easter by the crusaders, who are penitents who carry on their backs tied with barbs and thorns. The tradition of loading these sticks in the country began in 1598, according to the oldest records.

Currently, it is a practice that is still being carried out in Taxco, Guerrero. That is why the procession of the Christ of the Holy Burial carried out by the Catholics of this town has gained popularity, as it is a sign of solemnity and pain contained by those who carry the enormous weight all the way.

Nowadays the presence of blood penitents is minimal compared to the golden age of the “bloody processions” that became popular largely because it was a great spectacle that attracted the attention of the whole society.

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