The Skinless Ones: The Fascinating and Horrifying History of the Skoptsy Sect
The Skinless Ones: The Fascinating and Horrifying History of the Skoptsy Sect
Throughout the history of Russia, various sects and cults have emerged, each with its own unique beliefs and practices. One of the most infamous and mystifying of these groups is the Skoptsy, a secret Christian sect known for its extreme and controversial rituals.
Brief Overview of the Skinless Ones
The Skoptsy, also known as скопцы in Russian, were a secret sect of Christianity in imperial Russia. They gained notoriety for practicing ritual castration for men and the removal of women’s breasts. This practice was rooted in their belief that it would absolve them of the sin of sexual lust and pave the way to eternal life.
The Birth and Rise of the Skoptsy
The sect origins can be traced back to a group of three peasants, Khlysty, from the Orlov Region, located around 220 miles south of Moscow. These individuals, led by Kontrady Selivanov, castrated themselves and another 30 people. They believed that by removing themselves from the sin of sexual lust, they would achieve eternal life. Notably, one of the castrated individuals, Kontrady Selivanov, proclaimed himself to be Christ.
In 1772, Selivanov and his followers were sent to Siberia. However, this exile proved beneficial for the sect. Two decades later, Selivanov returned to St. Petersburg as a charismatic mystic, having converted dozens of people to his faith. His influence extended to the merchant and soldier classes, and even attracted the attention of the aristocracy.
The Spread and Influence of the Skoptsy
Conversion Stories: By the 1790s, the Skoptsy had begun to gain popularity among merchants and soldiers. In 1802, Alexei Yelensky, an aristocrat who had absorbed the sect’s teachings during his exile, became a convert and even proposed to the Tsar that Russia be delivered under Skoptic rule. However, his proposal was met with strong disapproval and he was exiled again.
Mystical Practices: Selivanov himself did not engage in political activities but his practices, known as radeniya (praying), became popular among the capital’s bohemian crowd. Mysticism was in vogue during this period, and official figures like Lubyanovsky reported that Tsar Alexander I even visited Selivanov before the Battle of Austerlitz in 1805. Selivanov urged the emperor not to start his campaign.
Legal Challenges: The legal life of the Skoptsy came to an end in 1817 when two White Guard officers were castrated. Selivanov faced arrest, but it was too late for the sect. By the second half of the 19th century, the Skoptsy had spread among the cities and became a common phenomenon in Russia.
The Legacy of the Skoptsy
Despite the tragic and controversial nature of their practices, the Skoptsy sect marked a significant period in Russian history. Their beliefs and activities were a blend of mysticism, sexuality, and spiritual redemption. Today, the Skoptsy are believed to be largely extinct. However, some dubious sources claim there are 400 Skoptsy alive today, though this claim lacks serious proof.
Modern Followers: Modern followers of the Skoptsy can be considered “anti-sexuals,” continuing the extreme beliefs of their predecessors. Despite the lack of active members, the Skoptsy continue to hold a place in Russian folklore and cultural history.
In conclusion, the Skoptsy sect remains a mysterious and often misunderstood chapter in Russian religious and cultural history. Their practices provide a fascinating and chilling glimpse into the darker aspects of human belief and behavior.