New Testament
Luke 19:2
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There was a man named Zacchaeus, who was the chief tax collector and was rich.
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And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich.
What Luke 19:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we are introduced to Zacchaeus, a man who held a significant position as the chief tax collector in Jericho. Tax collectors were often despised by the Jewish people because they worked for the Roman government and were known for extorting money from their fellow Jews. Zacchaeus, being the chief among them, likely had a reputation for being particularly wealthy, which would have further alienated him from the community. His wealth was a result of his profession, which was often associated with dishonesty and greed. Despite his riches and status, the narrative suggests that there is more to Zacchaeus than meets the eye, hinting at a deeper spiritual need that he may have. This sets the stage for his encounter with Jesus, which will reveal themes of redemption and transformation. Zacchaeus's story illustrates that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace, regardless of their past or societal standing.
How to apply Luke 19:2 to your life
Zacchaeus's story reminds us that our past does not define our future. No matter our social status or mistakes, we can seek a relationship with God. It encourages us to look beyond appearances and recognize the potential for change in ourselves and others.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1–10)
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Jesus
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Luke 19:2
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 19:2 mean?
Luke 19:2 introduces Zacchaeus, a wealthy chief tax collector in Jericho. This verse highlights his social status and the negative perception of tax collectors among the Jewish people, setting the stage for his transformative encounter with Jesus.
Who was Zacchaeus in Luke 19:2?
Zacchaeus was the chief tax collector in Jericho, known for his wealth and often despised by the Jewish community for collaborating with the Roman authorities. His position suggests he was likely involved in dishonest practices, contributing to his unpopularity.
What is the significance of Zacchaeus being rich in Luke 19:2?
Zacchaeus's wealth in Luke 19:2 emphasizes the contrast between his social status and the spiritual journey he is about to undertake. It illustrates how material wealth can lead to alienation from one's community and highlights the theme of redemption.
What does the term 'chief tax collector' mean in Luke 19:2?
The term 'chief tax collector' in Luke 19:2 refers to someone who oversees other tax collectors and is responsible for collecting taxes on behalf of the Roman government. This role was often associated with greed and exploitation, making Zacchaeus a controversial figure.
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