What form of punishment was commonly used in early prisons dating back to biblical times?

The most commonly used form of punishment in early prisons, tracing back to biblical times, primarily consisted of death penalties and corporal punishment. This approach was strongly rooted in the belief in retribution, where the severity of punishment was often intended to match the severity of the crime. Historical records and biblical references highlight the use of physical punishment, such as flogging or other forms of corporal punishment, as a means to enforce laws and maintain social order.

In addition to corporal punishment, the death penalty was frequently administered for a range of offenses perceived as serious crimes, reflecting societal values and norms of that time. The rationale behind these punishments was largely based on a deterrent effect, aiming to dissuade others from committing similar offenses. This practice was pervasive across various cultures and legal systems, establishing a precedent that influenced the evolution of punitive measures in more contemporary legal frameworks.