Pronunciation: [zˈakɪəs] (IPA) 
The name Zaccheus, from the Greek Ζακχαῖος, is spelled /zæˈkiəs/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first sound, /z/, is a voiced alveolar fricative. The second sound, /æ/, is a short vowel sound similar to the "a" in "cat". The third sound, /k/, is an unvoiced velar stop. The fourth sound, /i/, is a short vowel sound similar to the "i" in "sit". The final sound, /əs/, is an unvoiced "s" sound followed by a schwa vowel sound.
Zaccheus is a biblical name that has significant cultural and historical significance. In biblical context, Zaccheus is best known as the tax collector whom Jesus Christ encountered and had a transformative interaction with. As stated in the Gospel of Luke, Zaccheus was a wealthy tax collector who operated in the city of Jericho in the region of Judea during the time of Jesus' ministry.
The name "Zaccheus" has Hebrew origins and is derived from the word "zakkay," which means "pure" or "innocent." In this sense, the name implies a virtuous or blameless individual. Despite being a despised tax collector by his community, Zaccheus displayed great curiosity and eagerness to witness Jesus' arrival. He climbed a sycamore tree to catch a glimpse of Jesus passing through Jericho.
When Jesus reached the spot where Zaccheus was perched, he invited himself to stay at Zaccheus' house. This transformative encounter led Zaccheus to repentance and a commitment to make amends for any financial injustices he may have committed. He vowed to give half of his possessions to the poor and to repay any person he may have cheated four times the amount he had defrauded.
The story of Zaccheus has since become a symbol of redemption, forgiveness, and transformation in Christian teachings. It serves as a reminder that anyone, regardless of their social status or past actions, has the potential for change and spiritual growth. The name Zaccheus thus carries with it the connotation of repentance, restitution, and a change towards a righteous path.
The name "Zaccheus" is of Hebrew origin. It comes from the Hebrew name "Zakkai" (זַכַּי), which means "pure" or "innocent". In the New Testament of the Bible, the name Zaccheus is mentioned in the Gospel of Luke, where it refers to a tax collector who climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus. The name Zaccheus was later anglicized and adapted from its original Hebrew form.
