12:4 quaternions. That is, groups of four soldiers each. Usually a prisoner was guarded by only one quaternion.

12:4 Easter. This is actually the “Passover,” following the “days of unleavened bread.” Because Christ’s resurrection occurred immediately after Passover, Easter has traditionally been near the time of Passover. The term “Easter” itself, however, is probably derived from Eastre, the Teutonic goddess of spring.