KnoWhy #96 - Why was Abinadi Scourged with Faggots? (Mosiah 17:3)

The story of Abinadi suffering “death by fire” has most often evoked images of the prophet burning at the stake. Yet the Book of Mormon curiously describes Abinadi as being “scourged . . . with faggots,” suggesting he was instead beaten with bundles of burning sticks. Though it may seem strange, there is compelling evidence for a similar practice among the Aztecs, as well as the more contemporary Maya and other Native American cultures throughout the Americas. Despite knowing the terrible pains of this torture that awaited him, Abinadi boldly prophesied to King Noah and his priests concerning their wickedness.