Corporal mortification is a specific type of penance or self-denial that is practiced upon the bodily senses. It is not an end in itself, but rather a means to a greater spiritual end.
Understanding Corporal Mortification
At its core, corporal mortification is a disciplined spiritual practice. It falls under the broader umbrella of mortification, which is understood as the struggle against our undesirable inclinations or tendencies. The ultimate aim of this struggle is to align one's will with the will of a higher power, often God. Therefore, corporal mortification specifically targets the physical aspects of this spiritual discipline.
The Purpose of Mortification
Mortification, including its corporal form, serves as a vital tool in spiritual development. Its key purposes include:
- Overcoming Bad Inclinations: It involves actively working to subdue inherent tendencies or habits that lead one away from virtuous conduct. This requires self-awareness and consistent effort.
- Achieving Spiritual Goals: Rather than being a goal in itself, mortification is a disciplined path that enables individuals to grow spiritually and draw closer to their desired state of grace or enlightenment.
- Voluntary Self-Denial: It is a conscious choice to forgo certain comforts, pleasures, or desires related to the body, not for the sake of suffering, but for the sake of spiritual advancement.
Key Characteristics of Corporal Mortification
Corporal mortification is distinguished by its focus on the physical realm:
- Type of Penance: It is a form of penance, implying a voluntary act of atonement or a disciplined practice undertaken for spiritual growth.
- Self-Denial: It involves denying oneself certain physical comforts, pleasures, or even necessities, always within reasonable and healthy limits, to strengthen spiritual resolve.
- Practiced Upon Bodily Senses: The practice directly engages and disciplines the senses – sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell – as well as general bodily comforts and urges. This could involve, for instance, choosing simpler foods, enduring minor discomforts, or limiting sensory inputs.
By engaging in corporal mortification, individuals seek to gain greater control over their bodily desires and inclinations, thereby fostering a deeper connection to their spiritual purpose and aligning themselves more closely with divine will.