Quaternion
Culture & SocietyWhat is the meaning of Quaternion in the Bible?
A Roman military unit consisting of four soldiers. In the context of Acts 12:4, these units were assigned to guard prisoners during specific night watches.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the quaternion provides insight into the rigorous security measures employed by Roman authorities, clarifying the narrative tension in Acts 12 regarding the miraculous escape of Peter from custody.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Ancient Cultural Lens: Avoid applying 21st-century Western assumptions to Quaternion. Examine how first-century or Near Eastern listeners understood this practice within their daily social dynamics.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Quaternion in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Quaternion clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Acts 12:4
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Quaternion." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/quaternion/