nux581
Magistrate
I have been noodling my way through various archives, and discussions in a number of threads center on what was "normal" in the crucifixion of Jesus, and what was unusual. I have come to believe that a brutal scourging of the condemned was a necessary component of a crucifixion using nails.
Quite simply, holding a strong, desperate male tight against the wood for nailing his limbs down would be no easy matter. Could a group of equally strong (but not so desperate) men accomplish the deed? Of course, but probably not without bloody noses, scratched faces, and various bruises to show for it. That is why the scourging is a necessity. Nothing like taking the starch out of a person than a horrific scourging.
Searing pain as skin is torn to shreds coupled with massive loss of blood and lymph would put the victim into shock. After the grinding, stumbling walk carrying the heavy patibulum (or perhaps the entire cross) to the place of execution, enduring further pain and blood loss, the condemned would be in no state to resist. Ensuing struggles would be weak and ineffective, if they took place at all.
I presume that women were subjected to a lesser level of pre-crux preparation. I have seen suggestions that the scourging was limited to buttocks and upper thighs, using a smaller, lighter flagellum. That would fit the picture; a woman would be easier to dominate during the nailing.
The Romans were definitely an efficient people. Scourging prior to crucifixion provides a memorable spectacle, and effectively preps the condemned for nailing to the cross. It was probably standard practice.
Anyways, those are my thoughts...
Quite simply, holding a strong, desperate male tight against the wood for nailing his limbs down would be no easy matter. Could a group of equally strong (but not so desperate) men accomplish the deed? Of course, but probably not without bloody noses, scratched faces, and various bruises to show for it. That is why the scourging is a necessity. Nothing like taking the starch out of a person than a horrific scourging.
Searing pain as skin is torn to shreds coupled with massive loss of blood and lymph would put the victim into shock. After the grinding, stumbling walk carrying the heavy patibulum (or perhaps the entire cross) to the place of execution, enduring further pain and blood loss, the condemned would be in no state to resist. Ensuing struggles would be weak and ineffective, if they took place at all.
I presume that women were subjected to a lesser level of pre-crux preparation. I have seen suggestions that the scourging was limited to buttocks and upper thighs, using a smaller, lighter flagellum. That would fit the picture; a woman would be easier to dominate during the nailing.
The Romans were definitely an efficient people. Scourging prior to crucifixion provides a memorable spectacle, and effectively preps the condemned for nailing to the cross. It was probably standard practice.
Anyways, those are my thoughts...