The cross that Jesus carried was likely composed of two parts: the vertical beam (stipes) and the horizontal beam (patibulum). Historical and archaeological evidence suggests that Jesus carried only the horizontal beam to the site of crucifixion, while the vertical beam was usually fixed in place. Size estimates:
- The horizontal beam (patibulum) that Jesus carried was about 5 to 6 feet (1.5 to 1.8 meters) long.
- The vertical beam (stipes), when assembled with the horizontal beam, was about 7 to 9 feet (2.1 to 2.7 meters) tall.
- Overall, the entire cross stood approximately 10 to 15 feet (3 to 4.5 meters) high once assembled
Weight estimates:
- The horizontal beam alone likely weighed between 75 to 125 pounds (34 to 57 kilograms).
- The whole cross, if considered as one piece, might have weighed over 300 pounds (136 kilograms), but Jesus is believed to have carried only the crossbeam
These dimensions are based on typical Roman crucifixion practices of the time and archaeological findings, as there are no exact historical records specifying the precise size of Jesus' cross
. In summary, Jesus carried a horizontal beam roughly 6 feet long and weighing up to about 125 pounds, which was then attached to a vertical beam about 7 to 9 feet tall to form the full cross on which he was crucified
