Bible dictionary for children
Tax collector
A tax collector gathered payments required by authorities.
In simple words
What does it mean?
A tax collector gathered payments required by authorities. Some collectors were distrusted because of unfair practices and their connection with ruling powers.
Luke describes Zacchaeus as a chief tax collector. His encounter with Jesus leads him to speak about giving and repaying anyone he has cheated.
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What would show that Zacchaeus' change is more than words?
An example from the Bible
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Jesus Meets Zacchaeus
Luke 19:1–10
As Jesus passed through Jericho, he stopped for a man in a tree and brought salvation to his house.
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Bible context & readings +
Read the surrounding passage to see who is speaking and how this word or idea is being used. The linked reading opens the full chapter.
Related reading: Luke 19:2
There was a man named Zacchaeus. He was a chief tax collector, and he was rich.Full readings at eBible.org · World English Bible Classic. Read with an adult.
