The Roman tribune mistakes Paul for the Egyptian who recently led four thousand sicarii into the wilderness (Acts 21:38). These assassins, named for the curved dagger (sica) they concealed under their cloaks, targeted Romans and Jewish collaborators in Jerusalem's crowds. Josephus describes their terrorist tactics during the 50s-60s AD, creating chaos that contributed to the eventual revolt. The sicarii represented violent resistance to Roman occupation, contrasting sharply with Paul's peaceful mission. Luke's mention shows how Roman authorities viewed Jewish unrest and associated any gathering with potential insurrection.