### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Zakchaîos**, represented by `{{G2195}}`, is of Hebrew origin and refers to a specific Israelite, Zacchæus. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, all within the same biblical account. The narrative introduces **Zakchaîos** as a man `{{G435}}` who was `{{G2258}}` the chief among the publicans `{{G754}}` and was `{{G2258}}` rich `{{G4145}}` [[Luke 19:2]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Jesus `{{G2424}}` initiates an encounter with **Zakchaîos** `{{G2195}}`. After coming `{{G2064}}` to the place where Zacchæus was, Jesus looked up `{{G308}}` and said `{{G2036}}` to him, "make haste `{{G4692}}`, and come down `{{G2597}}`; for `{{G1063}}` to day `{{G4594}}` I must `{{G1163}}` abide `{{G3306}}` at thy house `{{G3624}}`" [[Luke 19:5]]. This encounter prompts a significant response from Zacchæus. He stood `{{G2476}}` and declared to the Lord `{{G2962}}` his intention to give `{{G1325}}` half `{{G2255}}` of his goods `{{G5224}}` to the poor `{{G4434}}` and to restore `{{G591}}` fourfold `{{G5073}}` if he had taken anything by false accusation `{{G4811}}` [[Luke 19:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of the account of **Zakchaîos**:
* `{{G754}}` **architelṓnēs** (chief among the publicans): This title defines the high-ranking and likely notorious position Zacchæus held, setting the stage for his transformation [[Luke 19:2]].
* `{{G4145}}` **ploúsios** (rich): This describes his financial status, which is a key element of the story, as his encounter with Jesus leads him to renounce his attachment to his wealth [[Luke 19:2]].
* `{{G4811}}` **sykophantéō** (to defraud, extort): This term, translated as "false accusation," is the specific sin Zacchæus confesses and for which he promises to make restitution, demonstrating the sincerity of his repentance [[Luke 19:8]].
* `{{G591}}` **apodídōmi** (to give away, back, restore): This word is used for Zacchæus's promise to "restore" what he had wrongfully taken, signifying his active step to make amends for his past actions [[Luke 19:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of the story of `{{G2195}}` is profound, illustrating several key principles:
* **Repentance and Restitution:** The account of Zacchæus is a clear model of true repentance. His immediate declaration to give to the poor and restore what he had taken by false accusation `{{G4811}}` shows a change of heart that results in tangible action [[Luke 19:8]].
* **Seeking the Lost:** Jesus's initiative to stay at the house of a chief among the publicans `{{G754}}` demonstrates His mission to come `{{G2064}}` and seek out those considered sinners and outcasts by society [[Luke 19:5]].
* **Transformation through Encounter:** Zacchæus's identity is completely redefined after meeting Jesus. Introduced as a rich `{{G4145}}` man, his story culminates in a selfless act of generosity, showing that an encounter with the Lord `{{G2962}}` can radically alter a person's values and relationship with worldly possessions.
### Summary
In summary, the name **Zakchaîos** `{{G2195}}` represents more than just a historical figure; he is a powerful symbol of transformation. His brief but memorable story shows how an encounter with Jesus `{{G2424}}` can lead to profound repentance, evidenced by a dramatic change in action and a reordering of one's life away from wealth and toward justice and generosity. The account serves as a testament to the power of Jesus to change any heart.
TRV