"A fire of coals"
(John 18:18 )

The "coal" of Scripture is charcoal, made chiefly from the root and trunk of a tree found in the desert. Amongst the well‑to‑do a brazier of copper about two feet high, bearing a chafing dish for the glowing mass, was usual. The charcoal was lighted outside the house in the chafing dish and burnt to a white heat until the worst of its fumes were given off, and was then brought indoors and used both for cooking and heating purposes. It was such a fire that the servants had lighted in the court of the High Priest’s house and where Peter stood and warmed himself on that memorable night when the Lord was betrayed.

November / December 1980