The Rod of Anguish, also known as a pain stick by some, is a torture instrument used by the Goa'uld. Pain sticks have pokers sticking out of them which release some sort of energy into the victim being tortured. The energy courses through the victim, being visible with through the eyes and mouth of the victim. Sokar was fond of the device, and often had a Necropolis Guard on hand to torture any prisoners that might come into his possession. Gerak once used it while trying to search for Ba'al when he was on Earth. (SG1: "Jolinar's Memories", "The Devil You Know", "Ex Deus Machina")