John 18:3

A band (thn speiran). Properly, the band. See on Mark 14:16; also on centurion, Luke 7:2; and Acts 21:31. The band, or cohort, was from the Roman garrison in the tower of Antonia.

Officers [υ π η ρ ε τ α ς]. See on Matthew 5:25. Sent from the Sanhedrim. The temple police. The Synoptists speak of the body which arrested Jesus as oclov, a multitude or rabble; but both Matthew and Mark mention the band [σ π ε ι ρ α] later in the narrative (Matthew 27:27; Mark 14:16).

Lanterns [φ α ν ω ν]. Only here in the New Testament. A detail peculiar to John. Though it was full moon, it was feared that Jesus might hide and escape.