The term "stigmata" refers to apparent bleeding from areas of the body corresponding to the wounds of Jesus Christ during crucifixion. A con-temporary ostensible case of stigmata is described, the experient being a Brazilian male who was raised as a Muslim. Commonalities with other experients (or "stigmatics") are identified. Psychophysiological explanations are considered, especially those that see the stigmata as evidence of various types of psychogenic bleeding, post-traumatic bleeding, somatization, and/or dissociation. Even so, those who experience the stigmata may be experiencing meaningful spiritual growth and development as well. On the other hand, several stigmatics have been found to self-inflict their wounds, perhaps as an attention-getting strategy.
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