John 5:2 . The original might with at least equal propriety be rendered sheep gate; and a gate so called is mentioned in Nehemiah 3:1 - 32; 12:39 . It was adjacent to the temple, and was so named from the number of sheep introduced through it for the temple service. Dr. Barclay thinks the "sheep market" was an enclosure for sheep and other animals designed for sacrifice, outside the temple area on the east.