The Brutal History of Scaphism: Torture and Execution in Ancient Persia

Scaphism was a form of execution and torture used in ancient Persia, where the victim was tied to a wooden frame and left to die slowly under the hot sun. The word "scaphism" comes from the Greek word "skaphos," meaning "bowl," because the victim's body would be reduced to a bowl-like shape as it shriveled up in the heat.

Scaphism was considered a particularly cruel and humiliating form of punishment, as the victim would be left to suffer for days or even weeks before eventually dying. The practice was used to punish those who had committed serious crimes, such as treason or sacrilege.

In addition to its use as a form of execution, scaphism was also sometimes used as a form of punishment for political dissidents and other perceived enemies of the state. The practice was eventually abolished in the 4th century AD, as it was deemed too cruel and inhumane even by the standards of ancient Persia.