What is described as the method of death in crucifixion?

• A. Beheading
• B. Drowning
• C. Asphyxiation
• D. Poisoning

Answer: (C)

Asphyxiation is the method described for death in crucifixion. The design of crucifixion makes breathing extremely difficult: to exhale, the person must push up with their feet and pull on the nailed hands or wrists, which becomes increasingly exhausting. As fatigue grows, the chest cannot effectively expel air, leading to rising carbon dioxide levels and insufficient oxygen for the body's tissues. This respiratory failure is what typically brings about death, even though other factors like blood loss or shock can accompany the process. The other options describe different methods of death that are not how crucifixion is understood to cause death.