Mutilating Ones Body

[FAH]

This is listed on my examination of conscience but what does it mean?
For example is popping a zit considered mutilation or picking a scab? Or are only much more grave matters considered mutilating such as slashing wrists?

 

[Defender1]

This is listed on my examination of conscience but what does it mean?
For example is popping a zit considered mutilation or picking a scab? Or are only much more grave matters considered mutilating such as slashing wrists?

I think
Opies Dei (my spelling is wrong for sure ) is a Catholic practices self mutilation to an extent . Popping zits and scraping scars does not count . There is a special tool used and method used . (if you seen the D Code they over dramatized it )

 

[Tarpeian_Rock]

At some point I would think multiple body piercings would fall into the “mutilation” category, though.

 

[JRKH]

popping a zit would not be self mutilation. Picking as a scab might be - - the difference is one is done to correct a problem (popping a zit) the other interferes with the body’s natural self correction (picking at a scab).

In either case these are very small matters.

Peace
James

 

[bbentrup]

The idea is unnecessary surgeries, including tattoos. Zit-popping and scab-pulling, if harmful activities, would probably be included here. However, if they do produce harm, it is (very probably) too minor so as to constitute grave matter, therefore something you do not need to confess. The fact that you will probably not know the exact status of harm or non-harm unless you are a skin-doctor would mean you have not knowingly sinned. I suppose that if you had infinite time, you could research the matter more fully, but it would be an extremely low priority. Besides full-knowledge considerations, I would definitely bet most scab-pickers, etc. don’t have full consent of the will (it itches). Basically an 0-for-3 on the need-I-confess-it list, and quite possibly not sinful in the first place.

Back to meanings of self-mutilation, generally. There are several tattoo threads on here for you to browse. Probably prudence (weighing the risk of harm vs. their upsides) is the yardstick to measure them by since it is a tough sell to say they are always objectively sinful. Vasectomies are indeed very serious sins of self-mutilation. Cosmetic implants probably follows the prudence yardstick as well, and there might be an underlying element of vanity (same with tattoos) that would bear close scrutiny as well. Self-flagellation can be a very holy penance if done correctly, but might even be sinful if not. Good use usually requires the advice of a holy spiritual director.

Probably the more common forms are drug use with any dirty needles being extra bad.

I hope this helps while not being too-over-the top. God bless!

 

[Catholic80]

Self mutilation is deliberate harm to oneself with an evil intent. I add “evil intent” because the saints wore hair shirts, lashed themselves, fasted, etc. Technically, this is “causing harm” but it is a self-sacrifice done out of love for God.

Cutting definitely would be considered self mutilation, but popping a pimple would not be. When you pop a pimple, you are trying to get the infection out and relieve the pressure - even if it may leave a scar. When you have surgery, you are trying to heal your body, even if it may leave a scar.
Cutting is done solely with the intention to cause harm to ones body. The thoughts to self-harm are not pure ones. If you are popping a pimple, you are not having impure thoughts.