Topical Bible: King: Chief officers of The Collector of Taxes

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In the biblical context, the role of tax collectors and their chief officers is a significant one, particularly during the time of the New Testament. Tax collectors, often referred to as "publicans" in some translations, were responsible for collecting taxes on behalf of the Roman Empire, which occupied Judea and surrounding regions during the time of Jesus Christ. The chief officers of these tax collectors held positions of authority and oversight, ensuring that the taxes were collected efficiently and accurately.

Biblical References and Context

The role of tax collectors is frequently mentioned in the Gospels, where they are often depicted as unpopular figures among the Jewish people. This unpopularity stemmed from their association with the Roman occupiers and their reputation for being dishonest and extortionate. Despite this, Jesus Christ's interactions with tax collectors are notable for their demonstration of grace and redemption.

One of the most prominent tax collectors mentioned in the Bible is Zacchaeus, who was a chief tax collector in Jericho. The Gospel of Luke provides an account of his encounter with Jesus:

"Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. And there was a man named Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector, who was very wealthy. He was trying to see who Jesus was, but could not see over the crowd because he was small in stature. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree to see Him, since Jesus was about to pass that way" (Luke 19:1-4).

Zacchaeus's account is significant because it highlights the transformative power of Jesus's ministry. Despite his wealth and status as a chief tax collector, Zacchaeus sought to see Jesus and ultimately repented of his ways, offering restitution to those he had wronged.

Role and Responsibilities

The chief officers of tax collectors were responsible for overseeing the collection of various taxes, including land taxes, customs duties, and poll taxes. They were accountable to higher authorities, such as the Roman governors, and were expected to meet specific quotas. This position required a combination of administrative skills and the ability to manage subordinates effectively.

Cultural and Religious Implications

In Jewish society, tax collectors were often viewed as traitors and sinners due to their collaboration with the Roman authorities. This perception is evident in the Pharisees' criticism of Jesus for associating with tax collectors and sinners:

"Later, as Jesus was dining at Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with Him and His disciples, for there were many who followed Him. When the scribes who were Pharisees saw Jesus eating with these people, they asked His disciples, 'Why does He eat with tax collectors and sinners?'" (Mark 2:15-16).

Despite the societal disdain, Jesus's interactions with tax collectors underscore the message of redemption and the inclusivity of the Gospel. His willingness to engage with individuals like Zacchaeus and Levi (also known as Matthew, one of the twelve apostles and a former tax collector) demonstrates the transformative power of grace and the call to repentance.

Conclusion

The role of chief officers of tax collectors in the Bible provides insight into the socio-political dynamics of the time and the radical nature of Jesus's ministry. Through His interactions with these individuals, Jesus challenged societal norms and extended the message of salvation to all, regardless of their past actions or societal status.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 20:24
And Adoram was over the tribute: and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder:
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Library

Certificate Laws and Western Land Bills
... He became chief justice in 1806, and died in 1819 ... With these officers lay full power
to pass upon the ... the charter from Charles the Second, King of England, and ...
/.../chapter xiii certificate laws and.htm

The Political Constitution of Egypt
... the departmental staff of the public officers, and might be ... He became "Chief of the
Ushers," afterwards "Master Crier ... then "Director of all the King's flax" in ...
/.../chapter ithe political constitution of.htm

The Call of Matthew - the Saviour's Welcome to Sinners - Rabbinic ...
... of God, [2435] was preserved, became king of Nineveh ... as Matthew was - is the object
of chief execration. ... that such applied to custom-house officers who either ...
/.../edersheim/the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter xvii the call of.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... found it irksome to pay the taxes levied upon ... a Seren,* and the office of this chief
was hereditary ... and was there identified with that of "melek,"** or king. ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

From the Close of the General Conference of 1832 to the Beginning ...
... Here a settlement was commenced under favorable circumstances, and the town was
called, in honor of the popular chief magistrate who then occupied the ...
/.../chapter 12 from the close.htm