Easton's Bible Dictionary: M. G. Easton, M.A., D.D.

Chain

  1. A part of the insignia of office. A chain of gold was placed about Joseph's neck (Gen. 41:42); and one was promised to Daniel (Dan. 5:7). It is used as a symbol of sovereignty (Ezek. 16:11). The breast-plate of the high-priest was fastened to the ephod by golden chains (Ex. 39:17, 21).
  2. It was used as an ornament (Pr. 1:9; Song 1:10). The Midianites adorned the necks of their camels with chains (Judg. 8:21, 26).
  3. Chains were also used as fetters wherewith prisoners were bound (Judg. 16:21; 2 Sam. 3:34; 2 Ki. 25:7; Jer. 39:7). Paul was in this manner bound to a Roman soldier (Acts 28:20; Eph. 6:20; 2 Tim. 1:16). Sometimes, for the sake of greater security, the prisoner was attached by two chains to two soldiers, as in the case of Peter (Acts 12:6).

Original from The Bible Foundation - bf.org. They claim public domain status for their original text.