Ζακχαῖος

Zacchaeus

Definition

Ζακχαῖος (Zacchaeus) is the name of a specific individual in the New Testament, a chief tax collector in Jericho (Luke 19:2). The name itself means 'pure' or 'righteous,' which creates a poignant contrast with his despised profession. In the biblical narrative, Zacchaeus is primarily known for his encounter with Jesus, where his initial status as a wealthy, socially ostracized sinner is transformed into that of a repentant follower who demonstrates salvation through his actions (Luke 19:8-9). The word refers exclusively to this person and carries the full narrative weight of his story.

Biblical Usage

This proper noun is used exclusively in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 19, appearing three times (Luke 19:2, 19:5, 19:8). Each usage identifies the same individual, progressing from a description of his occupation and stature (Luke 19:2), to Jesus personally calling him by name (Luke 19:5), and finally to Zacchaeus declaring his repentance to the Lord (Luke 19:8). The pattern shows a movement from societal label to personal address to redeemed identity.

Etymology

Ζακχαῖος is a Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name זַכַּי (Zakkai), which is a shortened form of זְכַרְיָה (Zechariah). The root meaning is from the Hebrew word זָכָה (zakah), meaning 'to be clean, pure, innocent' or 'to be righteous.' Thus, the name Zacchaeus carries the inherent meaning 'pure one' or 'righteous one.'

Semantic Range

The story of Zacchaeus is theologically significant as a concrete demonstration of Jesus's mission to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). His name, meaning 'righteous,' highlights the theme of transformative grace—Jesus declares salvation to a man whose life seemed the opposite of his name, restoring his true identity. Understanding the name's meaning enriches the reading by emphasizing the irony and power of divine redemption that creates righteousness where sin abounded.

As a chief tax collector (ἀρχιτελώνης), Zacchaeus was a Jew working for the Roman occupation, viewed as a traitor and a sinner by his fellow Jews. Tax collectors were often corrupt, charging extra for personal profit, making them both socially despised and wealthy. His short stature (Luke 19:3) may have been a cultural point of ridicule, adding to his social marginalization. His climbing a sycamore tree was an undignified act for a man of his presumed status, showing his desperate desire to see Jesus.

τελώνης (telōnēs, G5057) — The general Greek word for 'tax collector'; Zacchaeus was an ἀρχιτελώνης, a chief among them. Μαθητής (mathētēs, G3101) — Meaning 'disciple' or 'learner'; Zacchaeus becomes a follower of Jesus through his repentance and commitment.

Word Details

Scripture References