Actually the word "pricks" is the best word for what was being conveyed. I guess the translators could have used "ox goad," but they used the word "pricks." That is what Paul means by studying, and studying (not you Cheez since I believe you probably already knew what it meant) you would find out what is meant by "pricks." BTW, Cheez, that was a very good question, but I agree with Shain about authority, no reason to do so or historical protocol.

Tim

Proverbs 29:2 "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn."