Stigmata vs. Stigma — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 8, 2024
Stigmata refers to marks resembling the wounds of Christ, typically on a person's body, whereas stigma denotes a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.
Difference Between Stigmata and Stigma
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Stigmata are primarily associated with religious phenomena, often considered miraculous manifestations on the bodies of devout individuals, imitating the wounds of Christ during crucifixion. On the other hand, stigma is a social concept, referring to the negative perceptions and discriminations attached to certain characteristics, behaviors, or identities.
In the context of stigmata, these marks appear spontaneously and are revered in certain Christian traditions as signs of deep spiritual connection and piety. Whereas, stigma generally arises from societal attitudes and can lead to ostracism or prejudice against individuals or groups seen as different or inferior.
While stigmata are visible marks that are sometimes reportedly accompanied by pain or bleeding, similar to that suffered by Christ, stigma is an intangible condition that affects a person’s social identity, self-esteem, and can significantly impact their mental health.
Stigmata are relatively rare and are subject to religious interpretation and skepticism; they are considered holy and supernatural. On the other hand, stigma is a common social phenomenon that can affect anyone regardless of their religious or spiritual beliefs, often rooted in cultural norms and misconceptions.
The response to stigmata by those who believe in them is typically one of reverence and awe, viewed as a sign of divine favor or sanctity. In contrast, stigma is met with negative social attitudes, resulting in social exclusion, discrimination, and a general devaluation of the stigmatized individual's status.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Marks resembling Christ's wounds appearing on a person's body
A mark of disgrace associated with certain characteristics
Context
Religious and spiritual
Social and cultural
Perception
Revered and considered miraculous
Negative and discriminatory
Impact on Individual
Spiritual significance and personal affirmation
Social exclusion and psychological distress
Frequency and Acceptance
Rare and debated in religious contexts
Common and broadly recognized in society
Compare with Definitions
Stigmata
Physical marks resembling the crucifixion wounds of Jesus Christ.
The nun displayed stigmata during religious celebrations, which drew attention and reverence from her community.
Stigma
Often perpetuated through media and cultural norms.
Campaigns are aiming to change the stigma surrounding homelessness.
Stigmata
A religious phenomenon associated with holiness and mysticism.
His stigmata were investigated by church officials as a potential miracle.
Stigma
Negative stereotypes or discrimination against people.
She fought against the stigma of being a single mother in her workplace.
Stigmata
Signs considered as divine favor or sanctity.
She considered her stigmata a direct connection to the divine, guiding her spiritual journey.
Stigma
Can be internalized, affecting personal identity and self-esteem.
He struggled with internalized stigma after being diagnosed with HIV.
Stigmata
Occasionally accompanied by pain or other sensations.
Despite the pain of his stigmata, he felt it was a blessing and a form of divine communication.
Stigma
A mark of social disgrace isolating a person or group.
There was a strong stigma attached to mental health issues in his community.
Stigmata
Manifestations that can occur on the hands, feet, side, or head.
The stigmata on her hands were visible during her prayer sessions.
Stigma
Affecting individuals with certain diseases, disorders, or lifestyles.
The stigma of addiction often prevents people from seeking the help they need.
Stigmata
Stigmata (Ancient Greek: στίγματα, plural of στίγμα stigma, 'mark, spot, brand'), in Christianity, are the appearance of bodily wounds, scars and pain in locations corresponding to the crucifixion wounds of Jesus Christ, such as the hands, wrists and feet. An individual bearing the wounds of stigmata is a stigmatist or a stigmatic.
Stigma
An association of disgrace or public disapproval with something, such as an action or condition
"Depression ... has become easier to diagnose, and seeking treatment does not carry the stigma it once did" (Greg Critser).
Stigmata
A plural of stigma.
Stigma
A visible indicator of disease.
Stigmata
Marks resembling the wounds on the crucified body of Christ
Stigma
A small bodily mark, especially a birthmark or scar, that is congenital or indicative of a condition or disease.
Stigma
(Psychology) A bleeding spot on the skin considered to be a manifestation of conversion disorder.
Stigma
Stigmata(Christianity) Bodily marks, sores, or sensations of pain corresponding in location to the crucifixion wounds of Jesus, believed to be given as divine recognition of devotion.
Stigma
(Botany) The apex of the pistil of a flower, on which pollen grains are deposited and germinate.
Stigma
(Biology) A small mark, spot, or pore, such as the respiratory spiracle of an insect or an eyespot in certain protists.
Stigma
(Archaic) A mark burned into the skin as a visible identifier of a person as a criminal or slave; a brand.
Stigma
A mark of infamy or disgrace.
Stigma
A scar or birthmark.
Stigma
A mark on the body corresponding to one of the wounds of the Crucifixion on Jesus' body, and sometimes reported to bleed periodically.
Stigma
An outward sign; an indication.
Stigma
(botany) The sticky part of a flower that receives pollen during pollination.
Stigma
(medicine) A visible sign or characteristic of a disease.
Stigma
(typography) A ligature of the Greek letters sigma and tau, (Ϛ/ϛ).
Stigma
A mark made with a burning iron; a brand.
Stigma
Any mark of infamy or disgrace; sign of moral blemish; stain or reproach caused by dishonorable conduct; reproachful characterization.
The blackest stigma that can be fastened upon him.
All such slaughters were from thence called Bartelmies, simply in a perpetual stigma of that butchery.
Stigma
That part of a pistil which has no epidermis, and is fitted to receive the pollen. It is usually the terminal portion, and is commonly somewhat glutinous or viscid. See Illust. of Stamen and of Flower.
Stigma
A small spot, mark, scar, or a minute hole; - applied especially to a spot on the outer surface of a Graafian follicle, and to spots of intercellular substance in scaly epithelium, or to minute holes in such spots.
Stigma
One of the external openings of the tracheæ of insects, myriapods, and other arthropods; a spiracle.
Stigma
A point so connected by any law whatever with another point, called an index, that as the index moves in any manner in a plane the first point or stigma moves in a determinate way in the same plane.
Stigma
Marks believed to have been supernaturally impressed upon the bodies of certain persons in imitation of the wounds on the crucified body of Christ. See def. 5, above.
Stigma
The apical end of the style where deposited pollen enters the pistil
Stigma
A symbol of disgrace or infamy;
And the Lord set a mark upon Cain
Stigma
An external tracheal aperture in a terrestrial arthropod
Stigma
A skin lesion that is a diagnostic sign of some disease
Common Curiosities
What causes stigmata?
Stigmata are believed to be miraculous manifestations, often associated with intense religious devotion and mystical experiences.
How is stigma experienced in society?
Stigma is experienced as discrimination, social exclusion, and negative stereotyping that can lead to severe psychological and social consequences.
Are stigmata recognized by all Christian denominations?
Not all Christian denominations recognize stigmata; acceptance varies with theological beliefs and interpretations.
Is there a specific age or gender for stigmata manifestation?
There is no specific age or gender; historical cases vary widely.
Do stigmata have a medical explanation?
Some medical theories suggest psychological or physical explanations for stigmata, but none are universally accepted.
What are common sources of stigma?
Common sources include mental health, physical disabilities, social status, and many types of behavior or personal characteristics.
Can stigma be overcome?
Yes, stigma can be overcome through education, awareness campaigns, and changes in societal attitudes and policies.
Can anyone receive stigmata?
Historically, stigmata are reported mostly among devout Christians deeply engaged in spiritual practices.
Does stigma have any benefits?
Sociologically, some argue that stigma can reinforce social norms, but it is generally viewed as harmful.
Can stigmata be faked?
There have been cases where stigmata were alleged to be faked, leading to controversy and skepticism.
How does stigma affect mental health?
Stigma can significantly impact mental health by causing feelings of shame, isolation, and lower self-esteem.
How can communities fight stigma?
Communities can fight stigma by promoting inclusivity, education, and understanding through dialogue and policy changes.
How is stigma addressed in the workplace?
In the workplace, stigma is addressed through policies, training, and support systems aimed at creating a more inclusive environment.
Are stigmata painful?
Reports vary, but many stigmatists claim to experience pain associated with their marks.
What types of stigmata exist?
Types include visible wounds, bleeding, and sometimes sensations without visible marks.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
