Quaternion

Quaternion [N] [S]

a band of four soldiers. Peter was committed by Herod to the custody of four quaternions, i.e., one quaternion for each watch of the night ( Acts 12:4 ). Thus every precaution was taken against his escape from prison. Two of each quaternion were in turn stationed at the door ( 12:6 ), and to two the apostle was chained according to Roman custom.

These dictionary topics are from
M.G. Easton M.A., D.D., Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Third Edition,
published by Thomas Nelson, 1897. Public Domain, copy freely.

[N] indicates this entry was also found in Nave's Topical Bible
[S] indicates this entry was also found in Smith's Bible Dictionary

Bibliography Information

Easton, Matthew George. "Entry for Quaternion". "Easton's Bible Dictionary". .