Publicans, in the context of the New Testament, were tax collectors employed by the Roman Empire to collect taxes from the Jewish populace. The term "publican" is derived from the Latin word "publicanus," which refers to a person who managed public revenue. In the Gospels, publicans are often depicted as individuals who were despised by their fellow Jews due to their association with the Roman authorities and their reputation for corruption and extortion.

Historical Context

During the time of Jesus, Judea was under Roman occupation, and the Roman government imposed various taxes on the people. These taxes included land taxes, customs duties, and poll taxes. The Romans employed local agents, often Jews, to collect these taxes. These agents, known as publicans, were responsible for gathering the required funds and forwarding them to the Roman authorities. The system allowed publicans to collect more than the prescribed amount, enabling them to profit personally, which contributed to their unpopularity.

Biblical References

Publicans are frequently mentioned in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels. They are often grouped with "sinners" and are portrayed as social outcasts. Despite their negative reputation, Jesus' interactions with publicans highlight His message of redemption and grace.

1. Matthew the Apostle: One of the most notable publicans in the New Testament is Matthew, also known as Levi. Before becoming a disciple of Jesus, Matthew was a tax collector. In Matthew 9:9 , it is written: "As Jesus went on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax booth. 'Follow Me,' He told him, and Matthew got up and followed Him." Matthew's calling demonstrates Jesus' willingness to reach out to those marginalized by society.

2. Zacchaeus: Another significant account involving a publican is the account of Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector in Jericho. In Luke 19:2-10 , Zacchaeus is described as a wealthy man who sought to see Jesus. Jesus' decision to stay at Zacchaeus' house led to Zacchaeus' repentance and restitution: "But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, 'Look, Lord! Half of my possessions I give to the poor, and if I have cheated anyone, I will repay it fourfold.'" This encounter underscores the transformative power of Jesus' ministry.

3. Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector: In Luke 18:9-14 , Jesus tells a parable contrasting a self-righteous Pharisee with a humble tax collector. The tax collector's prayer, "God, have mercy on me, a sinner," is commended by Jesus, illustrating the value of humility and repentance over self-righteousness.

Social and Religious Implications

Publicans were often ostracized by Jewish society and religious leaders. They were considered ceremonially unclean due to their interactions with Gentiles and their perceived betrayal of their own people. The Pharisees, in particular, viewed publicans with disdain, as seen in their frequent criticisms of Jesus for associating with them (e.g., Matthew 9:11: "When the Pharisees saw this, they asked His disciples, 'Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?'").

Despite their low social standing, the New Testament narrative reveals that publicans were not beyond the reach of God's grace. Jesus' ministry emphasized that repentance and faith could lead to forgiveness and acceptance into the Kingdom of God, regardless of one's past actions or societal status. This message challenged the prevailing religious norms and highlighted the inclusive nature of the Gospel.Luke 5:27
And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said to him, Follow me.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Travelling in Palestine --Roads, Inns, Hospitality, Custom-House ...
... to which he invited his fellow-publicans, that they ... tax-farmers (Moches) and
tax-collectors (Gabbai), both ... of synagogue, elementary schools, public baths, the ...
/.../sketches of jewish social life/chapter 4 travelling in palestineroads.htm

Pontius Pilate
... into contact with the chief local collectors, such as ... was known as the "Friend of
publicans and sinners ... of the commencement of our Lord's public ministry, Luke ...
/.../milligan/men of the bible some lesser-known/pontius pilate.htm

What is a publican in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Why does the Bible speak so negatively about tax collectors? | GotQuestions.org

Does salvation affect more than just the afterlife? | GotQuestions.org

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