ἀρχιτελώνης (architelōnēs)
architelōnēs
chief tax collector
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun architelōnēs identifies a chief tax collector, specifically the head of a tax-gathering district rather than an individual collector. In first-century Judea, this position carried significant wealth and social stigma, as tax collectors were viewed as collaborators with Rome and often accused of extortion. The term combines words for "chief" or "first" and "tax," marking the holder as the top official in a lucrative but despised system.
This word appears only once in the New Testament, in Luke 19:2, where it introduces Zacchaeus. By using this specific title, the text immediately establishes Zacchaeus’s high status and influence within Jericho. The narrative highlights how Jesus’ invitation to such a prominent figure demonstrates grace extending beyond the margins of society to those entrenched in its corrupt structures.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word architelōnēs points to a person who held significant power and wealth, yet carried deep social stigma in first-century Judea. As the head of tax collection in Jericho, Zacchaeus was not just rich but influential, sitting at the center of a system many viewed as corrupt and oppressive. His status made him an outsider among his own people, isolated by both his profession and his position.
What stands out in Luke 19:2 is that Jesus did not ignore this man because of his reputation or wealth. Instead, He called Zacchaeus by name and invited Himself into his home. This shows that grace reaches those who are entrenched in systems of compromise or shame. No matter how high your status or how deep your past mistakes, you are known and valued by God.
This story invites us to see ourselves not by the labels society places on us, but by the invitation Jesus extends. Whether you feel overlooked or overly scrutinized, His call brings dignity and hope. You are seen, and you are welcome.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a chief tax collector1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀρχιτελώνης1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 19:2
There was a man named Zacchaeus. He was a chief tax collector, and he was rich.
This verse uniquely identifies Zacchaeus as architelōnēs, establishing his high social rank and wealth while highlighting the contrast with Jesus' humble invitation.