Easton's Bible Dictionary: M. G. Easton, M.A., D.D.
(Gr.
aule,
Lk. 22:55; R.V., "court"), the open court or quadrangle belonging to the high priest's house. In
Mt. 26:69 and
Mk. 14:66 this word is incorrectly rendered "palace" in the Authorized Version, but correctly "court" in the Revised Version. In
Jn. 10:1, 16 it means a "sheep-fold." In
Mt. 27:27 and
Mk. 15:16 (A.V., "common hall;" R.V., "palace") it refers to the proetorium or residence of the Roman governor at Jerusalem. The "porch" in
Mt. 26:71 is the entrance-hall or passage leading into the central court, which is open to the sky.