The Skopites, also known as the Skoptsy, Scapets or Scopiti, depending on translations, were a religious sect that emerged in 18th-century Russia. They believed that the body was inherently sinful and corrupt, and the only way to achieve spiritual purity was to remove the source of sin, which they believed to be the male genitalia. They practiced castration on men and mastectomy on women as a form of baptism that was necessary for salvation.
The Skopites were widely considered to be heretics and extremists by both the Orthodox Church and the wider society. They were persecuted by the Russian government, and many were forced to migrate to other countries, including Romania.
In Romania, the Skopites became known as the Muscali Birjars, a name that referred to their profession as carriage drivers. They were known for their gentleness, politeness, and their ability to speak multiple languages. They were also known for their charitable works, and many provided aid to the poor and disadvantaged.
Despite their small numbers, the Skopites had a significant impact on Russian society and culture. They were the subject of numerous literary works, including the novel "The Possessed" by Fyodor Dostoevsky. They also inspired a number of artists, including the painter Pavel Fedotov.
Today, the Skopites are largely forgotten, but their legacy lives on in the stories and artwork that they inspired.
