self-mortification

[ self-mawr-tuh-fi-key-shuhn ]

/ ˈsɛlfˌmɔr tə fɪˈkeɪ ʃən /

the inflicting of pain or privation on oneself: He was certain that self-mortification was the only road to salvation.

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First recorded in 1815–25

self-mor·ti·fied

[self-mawr-tuh-fahyd, self-], /ˌsɛlfˈmɔr təˌfaɪd, ˈsɛlf-/, adjective

I do not bid you do aught of this for self-mortification's sake, but that you may derive some after-blessing from it.
Hellenica|Xenophon
In person he was erect and well proportioned; in temper forgiving; in self-mortification severe.
Fox's Book of Martyrs|John Foxe
She was incited to these holy exercises by the noble examples of self-mortification which she always had before her eyes.
The Life and Times of Kateri Tekakwitha|Ellen H. Walworth
She was of a saintly mind, and showed a genius for self-mortification and fasting, and also for charity to the poor.
Curiosities of Christian History|Croake James

In company with other monks, Siddhattha sought for a while enlightenment by self-mortification.
The Buddha|Paul Carus