Name Meaning: The name Zacchaeus is derived from the Hebrew name "Zakkai," meaning "pure" or "innocent."

Biblical References: Zacchaeus is primarily mentioned in the Gospel of Luke, specifically in Luke 19:1-10.

Historical Context: Zacchaeus lived during the time of Jesus' ministry, in the first century A.D. He resided in Jericho, a prosperous city known for its palm trees and balsam groves. Jericho was a significant trade center, which made it a lucrative location for tax collection.

Occupation: Zacchaeus was a chief tax collector, a position that made him wealthy but also despised by his fellow Jews. Tax collectors were often seen as traitors to their people because they worked for the Roman authorities and were notorious for extorting money. As a chief tax collector, Zacchaeus would have overseen other tax collectors and had significant influence and wealth.

Physical Description: The Bible describes Zacchaeus as being short in stature. This detail is significant in the narrative of his encounter with Jesus.

Encounter with Jesus: The account of Zacchaeus is a powerful account of repentance and transformation. When Jesus was passing through Jericho, Zacchaeus was eager to see Him but could not because of the crowd and his short stature. Demonstrating determination, Zacchaeus ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to get a better view of Jesus.

In Luke 19:5-6 , it is recorded: "When Jesus came to that place, He looked up and said, 'Zacchaeus, hurry down, for I must stay at your house today.' So Zacchaeus hurried down and welcomed Him joyfully."

Repentance and Restoration: The encounter with Jesus led to a profound change in Zacchaeus. In Luke 19:8 , Zacchaeus declared, "Look, Lord, half of my possessions I give to the poor, and if I have cheated anyone, I will repay it fourfold." This statement reflects a genuine repentance and a commitment to restitution, going beyond what the Mosaic Law required for restitution of theft or fraud.

Jesus' Response: Jesus responded to Zacchaeus' repentance with a declaration of salvation. In Luke 19:9-10 , Jesus said, "Today salvation has come to this house, because this man too is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." This pronouncement affirmed Zacchaeus' faith and his inclusion in the covenant community of Israel.

Theological Significance: Zacchaeus' account illustrates the transformative power of Jesus' ministry and the message of salvation. It highlights themes of repentance, forgiveness, and the breaking down of social barriers. Jesus' willingness to associate with a tax collector underscores His mission to reach the marginalized and the lost. Zacchaeus' response exemplifies the fruit of genuine repentance, characterized by restitution and generosity.

Legacy: Zacchaeus' encounter with Jesus serves as a timeless example of how an encounter with Christ can lead to a radical change of heart and life. His account continues to inspire believers to seek Jesus earnestly, repent sincerely, and live out their faith through acts of justice and mercy.Zacchae'us (3 Occurrences)

Luke 19:2
and lo, a man, by name called Zaccheus, and he was a chief tax-gatherer, and he was rich,
(See RSV)

Luke 19:5
And as Jesus came up to the place, having looked up, he saw him, and said unto him, 'Zaccheus, having hastened, come down, for to-day in thy house it behoveth me to remain;'
(See RSV)

Luke 19:8
And Zaccheus having stood, said unto the Lord, 'Lo, the half of my goods, sir, I give to the poor, and if of any one anything I did take by false accusation, I give back fourfold.'
(See RSV)

Zacchae'us (3 Occurrences)
Zacchae'us. Zacchaeus, Zacchae'us. Zaccheus . Multi-Version Concordance
Zacchae'us (3 Occurrences). Luke 19:2 and lo, a man, by ...
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Zacchaeus (3 Occurrences)

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Zaccheus (4 Occurrences)

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