The crucifixion of Jesus: Review of hypothesized mechanisms of death and implications of shock and trauma-induced coagulopathy

Abstract The crucifixion of Jesus is arguably the most well-known and controversial execution in history. Christian faithful, dating back to the time of Jesus, have believed that Jesus was executed by crucifixion and later returned physically to life again. Others have questioned whether Jesus actua...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of forensic and legal medicine 2012-04, Vol.19 (3), p.113-116
Main Author: Bergeron, Joseph W., MD
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Asphyxia - history
Blood Coagulation Disorders - history
Capital Punishment - history
Christianity
Christianity - history
Contusions - history
Crucifixion
Death & dying
Famous Persons
Forensic Medicine
Heart Injuries - history
Heart Rupture - history
History, Ancient
Humans
Immobilization
Jesus
Jesus Christ
of Nazareth
Pathology
Pulmonary Embolism - history
Shock
Shock, Traumatic - history
Torture - history
Trauma
Trauma-induced coagulopathy
Wounds, Stab - history
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Summary:Abstract The crucifixion of Jesus is arguably the most well-known and controversial execution in history. Christian faithful, dating back to the time of Jesus, have believed that Jesus was executed by crucifixion and later returned physically to life again. Others have questioned whether Jesus actually died by crucifixion, at all. From review of medical literature, physicians have failed to agree on a specific mechanism of Jesus’ death. A search of Medline/Pubmed was completed with respect to crucifixion, related topics, and proposed mechanisms of Jesus’ death. Several hypotheses for the mechanism of Jesus’ death have been presented in medical literature, including 1) Pulmonary embolism 2) Cardiac rupture 3) Suspension trauma 4) Asphyxiation 5) Fatal stab wound, and 6) Shock. Each proposed mechanism of Jesus’ death will be reviewed. The events of Jesus’ execution are described, as they are pertinent to development of shock. Traumatic shock complicated by trauma-induced coagulopathy is proposed as a contributing factor, and possibly the primary mechanism, of Jesus’ death by crucifixion.
ISSN:1752-928X
1878-7487
DOI:10.1016/j.jflm.2011.06.001