Bible Dictionary
Chain
Chains served as ornaments, symbols of office, fastenings for sacred furnishings, and fetters for prisoners. Paul and Peter were among those bound with chains.
Definition
Chains were linked ornaments or restraints made of metal. They served as insignia of office, decorations, fastenings for sacred furnishings, and fetters for prisoners.
Biblical Usage
Gold chains marked honor or office, fastened the high priest’s breastplate to the ephod, and served as ornaments. Chains also bound prisoners, including Paul and Peter, who was attached to soldiers by chains.
Historical Background
Chains were worn by rulers and officials, used in jewelry, placed on camels, and employed for securing prisoners.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
(1.) A part of the insignia of office. A chain of gold was placed about Joseph’s neck (Gen. 41:42); and one was promised to Daniel (5:7). It is used as a symbol of sovereignty (Ezek. 16:11). The breast-plate of the high-priest was fastened to the ephod by golden chains (Ex. 39:17, 21). (2.) It was used as an ornament (Prov. 1:9; Cant. 1:10). The Midianites adorned the necks of their camels with chains (Judg. 8:21, 26). (3.) Chains were also used as fetters wherewith prisoners were bound (Judg. 16:21; 2 Sam. 3:34; 2 Kings 25:7; Jer. 39:7). Paul was in this manner bound to a Roman soldier (Acts 28:20; Eph. 6:20; 2 Tim. 1:16). Sometimes, for the sake of greater security, the prisoner was attached by two chains to two soldiers, as in the case of Peter (Acts 12:6).
Smith's Bible Dictionary
Chains were used,