Zacchaeus

1 definition found

From Easton's 1897 Bible Dictionary [easton]:

  Zacchaeus
     pure, a superintendant of customs; a chief tax-gather
     (publicanus) at Jericho (Luke 19:1-10). "The collection of
     customs at Jericho, which at this time produced and exported a
     considerable quantity of balsam, was undoubtedly an important
     post, and would account for Zacchaeus being a rich man." Being


     short of stature, he hastened on before the multitude who were
     thronging about Christ as he passed through Jericho on his way
     to Jerusalem, and climbed up a sycamore tree that he might be
     able to see him. When our Lord reached the spot he looked up to
     the publican among the branches, and addressing him by name,
     told him to make haste and come down, as he intended that day to
     abide at his house. This led to the remarkable interview
     recorded by the evangelist, and to the striking parable of the
     ten pounds (Luke 19:12-27). At Er-riha (Jericho) there is a
     large, venerable looking square tower, which goes by the
     traditional name of the House of Zacchaeus.