Luke 19:2
What does Luke 19:2 mean?
A plain-English look at Luke 19:2 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Luke 19:2 means
In Jericho, a man named Zaccheus is introduced. He held a prominent position as a chief publican, or tax collector, making him wealthy but also despised by his fellow Jews for his collaboration with the Roman authorities. His wealth often came from corrupt practices, adding to his notoriety. The detail of his status and riches is important as it highlights the unexpected nature of his subsequent interaction with Jesus.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And behold, a man called by name Zacchæus; and he was a chief publican, and he was rich.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And, behold, there was a man named Zaccheus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And behold, a man called by name Zacchæus; and he was a chief publican, and he was rich.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949A man, named Zacchaeus, who was the chief tax-farmer, and a man of wealth,
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and lo, a man, by name called Zaccheus, and he was a chief tax-gatherer, and he was rich,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And behold, there was a man named Zacheus, who was the chief of the publicans: and he was rich.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And behold, [there was] a man by name called Zacchaeus, and he was chief tax-gatherer, and he was rich.
Context
Following Jesus's arrival in Jericho, this verse immediately introduces Zaccheus, establishing his social standing and reputation. It provides the necessary background to understand the societal opposition and personal barriers that Zaccheus faced in seeking Jesus. This introduction prepares the reader for the dramatic transformation that is about to occur in Zaccheus's life.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Luke 18:24
And Jesus seeing him said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!
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