Psychiatric aspects of the phenomenon of stigmata

Abstract

A stigma is a notion used in some religions to describe the wounds which were symbols of a special relationship to God. The phenomenon is known in Christianity (the wounds corresponding to Christ’s wounds in his forehead, hands, feet and side) and Islam (the wounds corresponding to those of Mohammed that he suffered during his battles). Stigmata were the reason of lots of controversies, especially those concerning their authenticity and the ability of their bearers to control them. In the article I would like to refer the phenomenon of stigmata occurrence to the interpretation suggested in the subject literature – in terms of dissociational or controversial phenomena.