What is the Meaning of “Crucifixion” or “to Crucify”?

The word crucifixion refers to a brutal form of capital punishment in which a person is hung on a wooden cross or upright stake, often nailed through the hands and feet, and left to suffer until death. This method was not only physically excruciating but also deeply humiliating. Crucifixion was historically used by empires like Rome to execute criminals, especially those guilty of severe offenses such as rebellion, murder, or insurrection.

Unlike swift executions such as beheading, crucifixion inflicted slow and agonizing death sometimes taking days. Victims endured dehydration, exposure, and eventual asphyxiation as their bodies weakened. The purpose was not only to kill but to make the condemned an example of shame and deterrence.

The Crucifixion of Jesus Christ

This cruel method was used to execute Jesus Christ though He was entirely innocent. Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, declared:

“I find no guilt in this man.” (Luke 23:4, ESV)

Yet, under pressure from the crowd and to fulfill divine prophecy, Jesus was sentenced to death by crucifixion. His death was not accidental it was part of God’s redemptive plan. Isaiah had prophesied centuries earlier:

“He was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities…” (Isaiah 53:5, ESV)

Jesus suffered not just physically, but also spiritually, bearing the full wrath of God for the sins of the world. His nakedness, beatings, mockery, and abandonment fulfilled the weight of sin and judgment that humanity deserved.

Paul explains:

“For our sake He made Him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Corinthians 5:21, ESV)

By His blood, Jesus secured the atonement for our sins, offering forgiveness, reconciliation with God, and eternal life to those who believe.

Why Is This Important?

Rejecting or ignoring this great salvation has eternal consequences. As the writer of Hebrews warns:

“How shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?” (Hebrews 2:3, ESV)

The crucifixion was more than a historical event it was the pivotal moment of human history. It was where justice and mercy met, where sin was condemned, and grace was released.

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