Did Jesus Die on the Cross? (punishment, reject, crucify, beliefs)

[ThisShouldMakeSense]

I've read that Jesus died on a stake or a poll and not on a cross. it has to do with the root word, 'stauros.
The New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology says this about the Greek stauros:

Corresponding to the vb. (stauroo) which was more common, stauros can mean a stake which was sometimes pointed on which an executed criminal was publicly displayed in shame as a further punishment. It could be used for hanging (so probably Diod. Sic., 2, 18, 2), impaling, or strangulation. stauros could also be an instrument of torture, perhaps in the sense of the Lat. patibulum, a crossbeam laid on the shoulders. Finally it could be an instrument of execution in the form of a vertical stake and a crossbeam of the same length forming a cross in the narrower sense of the term. It took the form either of a T (Lat. crux commissa) or of a + (crux immissa). (Vol. 1, page 391)

The Greek word xylon can mean "wood, a piece of wood, or anything made of wood," and can refer to a cross as well, as pointed out in Vine's Expository Dictionary, Vol. 4, p. 153.


how do you feel about this? do you think it's not really important what he died on for example? thoughts please...

[DreamQuickBook]

The is a ton of evidence that the historical jesus died on a cross. Of course, the cross didn't look the way it is pictured today. It was a long structure upon which many "crosses" were stationed.

[fromthe heart]

I think most things despite their shape are considered a stake when put into the ground where some part remains out...but that would just be my impression.

[Scott1]

Jehovah’s Witnesses allege that "Christendom" became apostate back in the fourth century A.D. They believe that the true religion founded by Christ was corrupted by the introduction of pagan philosophies and customs, and consequently they reject many of the doctrines and practices of the Catholic Church. A conspicuous example of this is their denial that our Lord was put to death on a cross—that is, an upright stake with a crossbeam attached. Witnesses assert that Christ was put to death on a simple upright stake with both his hands nailed with one nail above his head.

An examination of their literature will demonstrate their utter rejection of the cross. In fact, so pervasive and resolute is their denial of the cross that their own Bible version, the New World Translation, goes so far as to translate "cross" and "crucify" as "torture stake" and "impale."

The Fathers had quite a different view of the instrument of Jesus’ death. Their writings steadfastly confirm the historic view that Jesus died on a cross with armed stretched out to the sides, as the following excerpts readily attest:

Read the excerpts here.

[michel]

heh; I never even knew there was any dispute...........

[Dayv]

I think it's funny that's such a miniscule (IMO) detail is debated so intensly. Would it really change your core beliefs if he was hung on one or the other?

[Ronald]

The one and only importaint thing is that he be lifted up. Fulfilling his purpose and the design of His Father. You and I were not there, so, we can argue till he comes to no real purpose. He died for you!
Your penalty is paid, go and sin no more.

[Jayhawker Soule]

Originally Posted by Jocose

The is a ton of evidence that the historical jesus died on a cross.

Really? A "ton"? Perhaps you could provide a couple of the more probative examples?

[DreamQuickBook]

Originally Posted by Deut. 32.8

Really? A "ton"? Perhaps you could provide a couple of the more probative examples?

I cannot think of a single respectable historical source which does not hypothesize the death by crucifiction of Christ at the hands of Romans in order to prevent Jewish riots.

[Jayhawker Soule]

Originally Posted by Jocose

I cannot think of a single respectable historical source which does not hypothesize the death by crucifiction of Christ at the hands of Romans in order to prevent Jewish riots.

Speaking of respectable, please answer the question asked.