Customs & Culture
Night Watches and Keeping Watch
Nighttime could be divided into watches during which guards, soldiers, shepherds, or others remained awake. Scripture also uses watchfulness as a powerful metaphor.
Primary Scripture
Historical and Cultural Background
Ancient communities and armies needed people awake during portions of the night. The Old Testament refers to night watches, while New Testament terminology sometimes reflects Roman divisions of the night. Systems varied by period.
Biblical Examples
Key biblical examples include Judges 7:19; Psalm 63:6; Psalm 119:148; Luke 2:8; Matthew 14:25; Mark 13:35-37.
Biblical Significance
The practice gives concrete force to commands to watch and to narratives involving unexpected nighttime events.
Related Images
Common Misconceptions
Old Testament watch divisions should not automatically be described using the later Roman four-watch system.
Historical Setting and Evidence
Culture: Israelite, Judean/Jewish, Roman
Period: United Monarchy, Divided Monarchy, Kingdom of Judah, Roman / Second Temple Period, Apostolic / Early Church Period
Evidence: Well Attested
Interpretive Importance: Helpful
Night watches are well attested, while the number and names of divisions differed across periods and cultures.