sharp-spined

Updated: August 2, 2026

Unlike their ilk of India, they do not practice self-torture for long periods, but only upon a certain day in each year. Then, stripped to the waist, these poor zealots go chanting a dolorous strain, and beating themselves unsparingly upon the back with the sharp-spined cactus, or soap-weed, until they are a revolting sight to look upon.

James Cox - My Native Land: The United States: its Wonders, its Beauties, and its People;: with Descriptive Notes, Character Sketches, Folk Lore, Traditions,: Legends and History, for the Amusement of the Old and the: Instruction of the Young