This was a punishment inflicted by the Romans. The culprit was stripped and stretched by cords or thongs on a frame, and beaten with a whip or a rod. From about B.C. 300 Roman citizens were exempt from scourging. Paul availed himself of this privilege when he was about to be 'examined' under this punishment. Acts 22:24-29 . But he was thrice beaten with rods. 2 Corinthians 11:25 . The Lord was subject to the pain and indignity of scourging. John 19:1 .