Definition
The 'ordeal tree' commonly refers to certain species of 'Acocanthera,' highly poisonous plants used in traditional 'ordeal' practices. These practices involved administering the plant to determine guilt or innocence. Think of it as nature's lie detector, but with deadly consequences. ⚠️ If the accused survived, they were deemed innocent; if they died, guilt was assumed. This practice reflects a belief in supernatural judgment. It's like a dangerous game of chance where the stakes are life or death.