There was a book I read some while back entitled the “Resurrection Factor.” The author sets up all possible or likely what-if scenarios to dismiss or prove against the resurrection of Jesus. It was also in that I learned much more about the process of crucifixion and how the body breaks down under that form of torture.
One of the topics in passing centered upon how the stakes driven into Jesus were not likely through the palm of his hands, but through his wrists. Primarily because ropes around his arms and steaks through his hands wouldn’t support his weight while vertically positioned. Stakes through the wrist with supported arms tied to planks would likely support his weight more effectively.
It’s also during crucifixion that victims suffocate. They don’t normally die right off from the punctures, bleed-out, exposure, or vertical prostration. While that’s a form of torture, sufferers support themselves from footrests on the vertical upright plank while standing and staked. It’s when sufferers have their legs broken during the ordeal that they begin to suffocate. Without enough support or strength to push up and continue vertical body support, the lungs become over-stressed, where normal breathing becomes impossible. The struggle continues until eventual death by an inability to breathe.
By historical account, Christ’s legs were not broken during the process. He was impaled by spear after death but before burial. However, the physical damage in numerous areas took place nonetheless. Whipping, stabbing, beating, head punctures, and crucifixion all to take the life of Jesus. The life He gave for us.
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