Ancient Chinese Ritual: Beating Women to Force Pregnancy

A disturbing fertility ritual from ancient China involved publicly striking women with sticks. The practice, known as "Pai Xi" or "Beating for Joy," aimed to drive out evil spirits and pray for pregnancy. It was also called "Da Sheng," meaning "Beating for Birth." Experts believe it began in southern China's Jiangsu and Fujian provinces. The ritual became widespread during the Song dynasty, which lasted from 960 to 1279. Historical texts describe it as a folk custom in rural areas. Participants believed the physical beating would help a woman conceive. The practice highlights extreme historical pressures on women to bear children.