Death by Crucifixion

ABSTRACT

The intricacies encountered in scientific studies of the Crucifixion constitute a formidable challenge to experts in various scientific disciplines. In this regard, medical aspects of these studies concerned with postmortem evidence and mechanism and cause of death is in the domain of the forensic pathologist who is trained to investigate violent and suspicious deaths. Unfortunately, numerous articles have been written in this area by sincere individuals who were influenced by their religious fervor causing them to reach erroneous and untenable suppositions and conclusions. As a consequence, serious errors have been made and propagated. This is particularly true regarding the mechanism and cause of death in crucifixion. The most widely held theory in this regard is the asphyxial or suffocation theory which indicates that the position on the cross is incompatible with breathing. In an endeavor to resolve this controversy, meticulous experimentation was conducted, which included blood gases, ear oximetry, Douglas bag studies, vital capacities, blood chemistries, EKG monitoring, blood pressures, ausculatory studies, pulse rates, objective and subjective observations, etc., on numerous volunteers suspended on a very accurate cross. The results of these studies afforded the conclusion that the cause of death was not due to asphyxiation but shock. Other significant theories are discussed.