Throughout history, from the Hindu Kavadi ceremony to the Sun Dance of the Lakota Indians, the Path of Probation has represented the most complex and revered rites on the spiritual path to the magic of the body and the opportunity to contact the Gods. Whether by accident or intentionally, many adherents of paganism discover this new path for themselves. At the same time, some proponents of secular BDSM practices find that they experience real spiritual experiences during their seemingly mundane scenes. This book explores the common ground between these communities and practices, charting a social cross-section of steadily growing numbers of adherents, revealing controversial issues on topics as diverse as sacred sacred pain, slavery, hooking, cathartic pagan ritual, spirituality of domination and submission, etc. ., and also what it means to be a divine slave. Featuring contributions from renowned authors and activists from both communities, as well as stunning photography by shibari-do artist and master Bridget Harrington, this book reveals an awe-inspiring passage through the gates to the realm of the underworld... and back again.