In the New Testament (Mark 6:27 ) the Authorized Version renders the Greek Spekulator By "executioner," earlier English versions by "hangman," the Revised Version by "soldier of his guard." The word properly means a "pikeman" or "halberdier," of whom the bodyguard of kings and princes was composed. In Matthew 27:65,66; 28:11 , the Authorized Version renders the Greek Kustodia By "watch," and the Revised Version by "guard," the Roman guard, which consisted of four soldiers, who were relieved every three hours ( Acts 12:4 ). The "captain of the guard" mentioned Acts 28:16 was the commander of the Praetorian troops, whose duty it was to receive and take charge of all prisoners from the provinces.