Verse 9. Peter went up, etc. The small room in the second story, or on the roof of the house, was the usual place for retirement and prayer, See Barnes "Mt 6:6, See Barnes "Mt 9:2".

About the sixth hour. About twelve o'clock at noon. The Jews had two stated seasons of prayer -- morning and evening. But it is evident that the more pious of the Jews frequently added a third season of devotion, probably at noon. Thus David says, Ps 55:17 "Evening and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud." Thus Daniel "kneeled upon his knees three times a day and prayed," Da 6:10,13. It was also customary in the early Christian church to offer prayer at the third, sixth, and ninth hours. Clem. Alex. as quoted by Doddridge. Christians will, however, have not merely stated seasons for prayer, but they will seize upon moments of leisure, and when their feelings strongly incline them to it, to pray.

{h} "Peter went up" Ac 6:5 {§} "housetop" "House-roof"