Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies as it provides a deeper insight into the cultural, historical, and linguistic context of the Scriptures. The Greek word Ζακχαῖος (Zakchaios), transliterated as Zacchaeus in English, is particularly significant because it is the name of a well-known figure in the New Testament. Zacchaeus is remembered for his encounter with Jesus, where he demonstrates repentance and restitution, making this word essential for New Testament interpretation and understanding ancient Jewish and Greco-Roman culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: Ζακχαῖος (Zakchaios) [zak-KHAY-os]
• Etymology: Derived from the Hebrew זַכַּי (Zakkai), meaning “pure” or “innocent.” This connection highlights the Semitic roots of the name and its cultural relevance in the context of the New Testament.
• Part of Speech: Proper noun, masculine; it is a personal name and does not decline like other nouns in Greek grammar.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Zacchaeus: The name of a tax collector in Jericho who climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus. His story is a prominent example of repentance and transformation in the New Testament.

Similar Words: Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous) [yee-SOOS], meaning “Jesus.” Both are proper nouns referring to significant New Testament figures. However, while Ζακχαῖος represents an individual’s personal transformation and encounter with Christ, Ἰησοῦς represents the central figure of the New Testament.

Further Insights: Ζακχαῖος is a proper noun and thus does not have a full declension pattern like common nouns. It remains the same regardless of its grammatical case, which is typical for indeclinable names. This is important to note for beginners learning Greek grammar, as understanding how proper nouns function can provide better insights into Biblical narratives. For more information, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines Ζακχαῖος as “Zacchaeus,” the chief tax collector mentioned in Luke 19:1-10. The lexicon focuses on his role in the narrative where he exhibits genuine repentance, making restitution for his past wrongdoings.
• Thayer’s: Provides the meaning of Ζακχαῖος as “Zacchaeus,” derived from the Hebrew word “Zakkai,” emphasizing its meaning as “pure” or “innocent.” It highlights his story in the context of Jewish societal norms, where tax collectors were often despised.
• Vine’s: Discusses the significance of Ζακχαῖος in the context of Luke’s Gospel. Zacchaeus’s transformation is seen as an example of the power of Jesus’ ministry to change lives and bring about moral reformation.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Lists Ζακχαῖος as a proper name in biblical Greek, noting its Semitic origin and usage in Hellenistic Jewish contexts. It draws connections between this name and its appearances in Jewish and Christian literature.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Identifies Ζακχαῖος as Strong’s G2195, noting that it appears in the New Testament in the context of Zacchaeus’ encounter with Jesus. Strong’s highlights the narrative’s importance in demonstrating the themes of repentance and forgiveness.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 19:2 – “And behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus [Ζακχαῖος]; he was a chief tax collector and was rich.”
• Luke 19:3 – “And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd, he could not, because he was small in stature.”
• Luke 19:5 – “And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, ‘Zacchaeus [Ζακχαῖος], hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.'”

Classical Usage

Summary of Ζακχαῖος (G2195: Zakchaios)

Ζακχαῖος (Zakchaios, Strong’s G2195) is a proper noun in the New Testament referring to Zacchaeus, the chief tax collector who encounters Jesus in Jericho. His story is a profound example of repentance, transformation, and the power of Jesus’ ministry to change lives. The name, derived from Hebrew, means “pure” or “innocent,” adding a layer of irony and depth to his story of moral reformation. Understanding Ζακχαῖος provides insight into the cultural and societal context of tax collectors in the New Testament, highlighting themes of redemption and reconciliation in early Christian teachings.

Did You Know?

Did you know that Zacchaeus, whose name means “pure” or “innocent,” was considered anything but that by his contemporaries? As a chief tax collector, he was likely seen as corrupt and a collaborator with Roman authorities. However, his transformation after meeting Jesus is a powerful testament to the New Testament’s theme of grace and redemption. This encounter is still celebrated today as an example of how one’s life can change when they seek Jesus with a sincere heart.