The reasons why ancient prisoners were very obedient and consciously knelt down when they were beheaded can be attributed to the following three aspects:
1. Etiquette and dignity
In ancient societies, respect for etiquette and the importance of dignity were very important values. Even in the face of death, prisoners observe traditional etiquette to show respect for social order and the law. Kneeling down for execution is also a manifestation of the prisoner's reverence for death and obedience to the torturer.
2. Demonstrations and warnings
Execution was a severe form of punishment at the time, not only to punish the prisoner, but also to serve as a public demonstration and warning. Prisoners kneeling down to justice show respect for the death penalty as a warning to others against committing crimes, and as a way for the authorities to demonstrate authority and maintain social stability.
3. The fear of death
Faced with the imminent approach of death, prisoners often feel terrified, knowing that they cannot escape their fate. In such cases, many prisoners will choose to be submissive and obedient, kneeling to accept the death penalty, in the hope of alleviating some of the pain, but also as a way of coping with the fear of pain and death.
It is important to note that the above explanation does not imply endorsement or promotion of any form of execution of the death penalty. The death penalty has been questioned and debated in many countries as an extreme form of punishment, while modern society is more inclined to promote the abolition of the death penalty in pursuit of a more humane and just penal system.