### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **telṓnēs**, represented by `{{G5057}}`, is defined as a **tax-farmer** or **collector of public revenue**. It appears **22 times** across **21 unique verses** in the Bible. While literally denoting a profession, the term consistently carries a strong negative social and religious connotation, often used to identify individuals considered outcasts or sinners.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5057}}` is used to highlight the radical nature of Jesus's ministry. Publicans are frequently grouped with "sinners" `{{G268}}`, and the religious authorities, such as the scribes `{{G1122}}` and Pharisees, criticize Jesus for eating with them ([[Matthew 9:11]], [[Mark 2:16]]). This association leads to Jesus being pejoratively labeled a "friend of **publicans** and sinners" [[Matthew 11:19]]. The social standing of a **publican** was so low that being treated as one was equated with being treated as a heathen man `{{G1482}}` [[Matthew 18:17]]. Despite this, Jesus calls individuals like Matthew `{{G3156}}` and Levi `{{G3018}}` directly from their work as **publicans** to become his followers ([[Matthew 10:3]], [[Luke 5:27]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the role and perception of the publican:
* `{{G268}}` **hamartōlós** (sinner): Defined as sinful or a sinner, this term is almost always used in conjunction with 'publican' to describe the class of people with whom Jesus associated, much to the dismay of the religious elite [[Luke 15:1]].
* `{{G1122}}` **grammateús** (scribe): Meaning a writer or secretary, scribes were religious authorities who often challenged Jesus. They are shown questioning why he would eat and drink with **publicans** and sinners ([[Mark 2:16]], [[Luke 5:30]]).
* `{{G5058}}` **telṓnion** (receipt of custom): This refers to a tax-gatherer's place of business. It is the specific setting from which Jesus calls Levi the **publican** to follow him [[Luke 5:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5057}}` is significant, often using the figure of the publican to illustrate key gospel truths.
* **Inclusion of Outcasts:** Jesus's deliberate association with **publicans** demonstrates that his ministry is for the socially and religiously marginalized. He is called their "friend" `{{G5384}}`, showing that the kingdom of God is open to those whom society rejects [[Luke 7:34]].
* **Symbol of Repentance:** The **publican** often embodies genuine repentance in contrast to the self-righteousness of the Pharisees. In a parable, a **publican** who prays, "God be merciful to me a sinner," is justified over the Pharisee [[Luke 18:13]]. **Publicans** were also among those who justified God by accepting the baptism of John [[Luke 7:29]].
* **Priority in the Kingdom:** Jesus explicitly states that **publicans** and harlots `{{G4204}}` enter the kingdom of God before the chief priests and elders who refused to believe [[Matthew 21:31]]. This underscores that reception into the kingdom is based on faith and repentance, not social status or perceived righteousness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5057}}` is more than just a job title. It serves as a powerful biblical symbol for the sinner who recognizes their need for mercy. The repeated interactions between Jesus and **publicans** illustrate a core tenet of the gospel: that God's grace extends to the most despised members of society, and that true righteousness is found in humble repentance, not outward religious observance.
TRV