Acts 16:24

24 On receiving this order, he placed them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.

Acts 16:24 Meaning and Commentary

Acts 16:24

Who having received such a charge
So strict an one from the magistrates, was doubly careful and diligent: thrust them into the inner prison:
the innermost part of it, the lowest or furthest part of the prison; so that there were the more doors, bolts, and bars, to break open, and pass through, should they attempt to make their escape: and made their feet fast in the stocks;
or "wood", a wooden machine, in which the feet of prisoners were put for security, and which we call "the stocks"; some say it was such an one, in which the neck as well as the feet were put, and so might be the same with our "pillory".

Acts 16:24 In-Context

22 The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered that they be stripped and beaten with rods.

23 And after striking them with many blows, they threw them into prison and ordered the jailer to guard them securely.

24 On receiving this order, he placed them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.

25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.

26 Suddenly a strong earthquake shook the foundations of the prison. At once all the doors flew open and everyone’s chains came loose.