Dozens of men were filmed carrying prickly cacti on their backs as part of an unusual Easter procession.
Several shirtless men could be seen marching down the street, hunched over, with cactus branches tied to their backs.
They tried their utmost to hide their pain as countless sharp needles pierced their skin.
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The striking scenes took place in Angangueo, Mexico, on Friday (3 Apr).
The display of faith, known as the Nopal Procession, occurs in Michoacán and other Mexican states every Good Friday.
The participants, known as penitents, carry prickly pear cacti on their bare backs in an act said to symbolise sacrifice, devotion, and the search for spiritual redemption.
The prickly pear cactus, called nopal locally, is an iconic plant in the region and a symbol of Mexican identity.
The event attracts large numbers of locals and visitors each year, as reported by Need To Know.
On social media, viewers were critical.
One viewer wrote: “Obedience is more important than sacrifice.”
Enrique commented: “It’s easier to open a Bible and understand the true Gospel.”
And Isis added: “There’s no need to perform a mock version. It should be remembered with respect.
“It’s a shame that people don’t understand this and think that doing such things will please God.”
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