In biblical times, prisons were not only places of confinement but also instruments of control and punishment. The concept of imprisonment in the Bible often involved harsh conditions, including being chained to guards. This practice is notably illustrated in the New Testament, reflecting the Roman method of ensuring that prisoners, especially those considered dangerous or significant, remained secure.

One of the most vivid examples of this practice is found in the account of the Apostle Peter's imprisonment. In Acts 12:6 , it is recorded: "On the night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, with sentries standing guard at the entrance to the prison." This passage highlights the extreme measures taken to prevent Peter's escape, underscoring the perceived threat he posed to the authorities.

The chaining of prisoners to soldiers served multiple purposes. It was a means of constant surveillance, ensuring that the prisoner could not move without the guards' knowledge. This method also symbolized the power and authority of the ruling government, demonstrating their control over those who opposed or threatened their rule.

The Apostle Paul also experienced similar treatment. In Acts 21:33 , when Paul was seized in Jerusalem, it is noted: "The commander came up and arrested him, ordering that he be bound with two chains." This immediate response to bind Paul with chains reflects the urgency and seriousness with which the authorities viewed his case.

The practice of chaining prisoners to soldiers was not only a physical restraint but also a psychological one. It served as a constant reminder of the prisoner's lack of freedom and the ever-present authority of the Roman Empire. This method of imprisonment was particularly used for those awaiting trial or execution, ensuring that they remained under strict control until their fate was decided.

In the broader biblical narrative, the imagery of chains and imprisonment often symbolizes spiritual bondage and the need for divine intervention. The miraculous release of Peter from his chains, as described in Acts 12:7 , where "an angel of the Lord appeared, and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. 'Quick, get up!' he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists," serves as a powerful testament to God's sovereignty and ability to deliver His servants from even the most dire circumstances.

Prisons in biblical times, therefore, were not merely physical structures but were deeply intertwined with the spiritual and political dynamics of the era. The accounts of individuals like Peter and Paul being chained to soldiers highlight the tension between earthly authorities and the divine mission of the early Christian leaders. These narratives continue to resonate, offering insights into the challenges faced by those who sought to spread the Gospel amidst opposition and persecution.Acts 12:6
And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Memoir of John Bunyan
... dreams, and visions of the night, which often made him ... or hid, and after all they
imprisoned their persons, to the ... us both.'[46] His wife had two books, The ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

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