CONSISTORY, Consistorium Palatii, mentioned in Esther, is called likewise Est. v. 1.Basilica Regis; in Hebrew, the Kingdom’s House. It is to be observed, that in the King of Persia’s apartment there were three principal pieces of Work. The first was the outward Court, Atrium exterius, where the Courtiers met, who came to Court, Esth. vi. 4. The second was the Hall, or inner Court, Atrium interius, where every one was forbid to come on pain of Death, unless he were called, Esth. iv. 11. The third was the Cabinet, or a sort of corner or alcove, wherein was the King’s Throne, called Consistorium Palatii, or Basilica Regis, Esth. v. 1, 2.
As to the different Consistories, or places where the Hebrews administred Justice, we shall speak of them under the Title Sanhedrim or Tribunal.