Matthew 27:66

66. Sealing the stone A cord was fastened, with sealing-clay at each end, to the sepulchre, being drawn across the door. Upon the clay the seal of Pilate, or of the priests, was stamped. The door could not be opened, therefore, without breaking the seal; which was a crime against the authority of the proprietor of the seal. The guard was to prevent the duplicity of the disciples; the seal was to secure against the collusion of the guard. So in Daniel 6:17: “A stone was brought, and laid upon the mouth of the den; and the king sealed it with his own signet and with the signet of his lords. ” A watch Probably a guard of four soldiers. Such certainly was the number who watched the crucifixion. John 19:23.