Cuttings in the flesh, or the laceration of ones body for the "propitiation of their gods," ( 1 Kings 18:28 ) constituted a prominent feature of idolatrous worship, especially among the Syrians. The Israelites were prohibited from indulging in such practices. ( Leviticus 19:28 ; 21:5 ; 14:1 ; Jeremiah 16:6 )