Acts 21:31

"While they were seeking to kill him" Which means that they were fully intent on killing him. "They were already pummeling him. Once they have come out into the court of the Gentiles, their furious activity can be seen from the tower of Antonia" (Reese p. 802). "A report came up to the commander of the Roman cohort that all Jerusalem was in confusion". fortress existed at the NW corner of the temple enclosure, on. rock side that is about 20 feet higher than the level of the floor of the temple area. This fortress had been rebuilt by Herod the Great, and was named Antonia in honor of his friend, Mark Antony. Two flights of stairs connected this fortress to the temple area. "During the feasts. garrison of soldiers in the fortress was kept under arms in constant readiness to suppress any tumults that might arise. Watchmen on the towers would be quick to notice the report the swift spreading tumult that swirled around Paul" (Reese p. 803). "Commander of the Roman cohort" The word commander here denotes one who commanded. thousand men, plus 120 horsemen, that is, one-sixth of. legion. This man's name will be given in Acts 23:26.