When did the practice of stoning start and what is the significance of the stones and why is stoning the method of killing?

The practice of stoning, or lapidation, has ancient origins, with historical references dating back to biblical times, particularly in the Hebrew Bible. Stones symbolize both the collective judgment of the community and a form of punishment that is intended to be public and communal, reinforcing social order. Stoning is often seen as a method of execution that reflects the severity of certain offenses, serving as a deterrent and a means of upholding moral and religious laws within a society. The act itself is also significant as it embodies a communal involvement in justice, rather than a solitary execution by authorities.