Telones
Telones Definition
NAS Word Usage – Total: 21
- a renter or farmer of taxes
- among the Romans, usually a man of equestrian rank
- a tax gatherer, collector of taxes or tolls, one employed by a publican or farmer general in the collection of taxes. The tax collectors were as a class, detested not only by the Jews, but by other nations also, both on account of their employment and of the harshness, greed, and deception, with which they did their job.
What does Telones Mean in Greek in Context of the Bible?
The Greek word “Telones” translates to “tax collector” in English. This term often carries a negative connotation in the biblical texts because tax collectors were typically viewed as corrupt individuals who collaborated with Roman authorities. Understanding Telones helps us grasp its deeper meanings and implications within the New Testament and how it reflects societal attitudes of the time.
The Historical Background of Telones
To truly understand Telones, we must first consider the historical and cultural context of ancient Judea during the time of the New Testament. The land was under Roman occupation, a time when the ruling power imposed taxes on the local populace. Tax collectors, or Telones, played a crucial role in this system. They were Jews employed by the Romans to collect taxes from their fellow Jews. Since these tax collectors often skimmed off extra money for themselves, they were generally despised and labeled as thieves and traitors by the communities they served.
In biblical times, tax collectors were seen as morally compromised and socially unacceptable. This negative perception is crucial for interpreting the texts where they are mentioned, as it reveals the challenges early Christians faced regarding social acceptance and the practice of forgiveness.
Telones in the New Testament
The term Telones appears several times in the New Testament. One of the most notable mentions is in the Gospel of Matthew, specifically in Matthew 9:9-13, where Jesus calls a tax collector named Matthew to follow him. This moment is significant because Jesus, a rabbi and a figure of spiritual authority, chose to be associated with someone society deemed unworthy.
This act was revolutionary. It highlighted that Jesus’ mission was to bring salvation to everyone, including those marginalized by society. When Jesus attended meals with tax collectors and sinners, it demonstrated a radical inclusivity that challenged the social norms of the day.
Example: The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector
In Luke 18:9-14, Jesus shares a parable contrasting a Pharisee and a Telones praying in the temple. The Pharisee boasts about his righteousness, while the Telones beats his chest, humbly admitting his sinfulness. Jesus concludes that the latter goes home justified before God. This story emphasizes humility and repentance over self-righteousness, showcasing the notion that God’s love is extended even to those considered the worst of sinners.
The Role of Telones in The Society
The existence of Telones in society reveals a divide between the wealthy elite and the common people. Wealth often determined status, and tax collectors, who amassed riches through deceitful practices, were seen as symbols of oppression. Many ordinary citizens would have harbored resentment not only toward these individuals but also toward the Roman government that empowered them.
However, the New Testament’s portrayal of Telones also serves a purpose—it illustrates the transformative power of Jesus’ teachings. Through the eyes of the early church, the calls for inclusion and the breaking down of social barriers were pivotal themes that ultimately contributed to the expansion of Christianity.
Theological Implications of Telones
Understanding the term Telones from a theological perspective reveals much about God’s grace and redemption. The New Testament constantly emphasizes that no sinner is beyond the reach of God’s mercy. The presence of Telones in the stories of Jesus serves as a reminder that the divine message is for all, even those who have strayed farthest from societal expectations.
Redemption and Forgiveness
The figure of Telones exemplifies the theme of redemption. Many tax collectors, like Matthew, left their dishonorable past behind to follow Jesus. The narrative surrounding Telones is about hope and the possibility of change. It speaks to the heart of Christian faith—that transformation is possible through repentance, faith, and divine love.
Cultural Significance of Tax Collectors Today
In modern times, the term tax collector might not evoke the same feelings it did in biblical times, but it still carries some negative connotations. The concept of someone collecting taxes often raises eyebrows due to fraud and mismanagement issues seen across various societies. However, reflecting on the biblical Telones invites us to reconsider how we view those we deem corrupt.
Do we, like the Pharisee in the parable, look down on others? Or do we follow Jesus’ example, recognizing each person’s potential for redemption? The legacy of Telones challenges us to practice compassion and understanding, especially for those who may appear to be on the margins of society.
Conclusion
The exploration of the term Telones in Greek reveals an extensive and layered understanding of social and spiritual dynamics in the Bible. Through discussions of Tax Collectors, we gain insight into the profound message of inclusivity and unconditional love found in the teachings of Jesus.
Telones reminds us of the struggles faced by individuals who dared to defy societal norms for a higher calling. By embracing this understanding, we are encouraged to look beyond labels, recognizing the inherent value in every person and understanding the transformative power of grace.
Common Questions Related to What Does Telones Mean In Greek In Context Of The Bible
Q. What does the word Telones mean in the Bible?
A. Telones means “tax collector” in Greek and is often associated with individuals seen as corrupt in biblical times.
Q. Why were tax collectors despised in biblical times?
A. Tax collectors were viewed as traitors collaborating with Roman authorities, often exploiting their own people for personal gain.
Q. How does Jesus’ interaction with tax collectors differ from societal norms?
A. Jesus welcomed tax collectors, like Matthew, showing that he came for all, especially those marginalized by society, challenging the status quo.
Q. What is the significance of the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector?
A. This parable illustrates the importance of humility and repentance, highlighting that God values a contrite heart over self-righteousness.
Q. Are there any modern parallels to the term Telones?
A. Yes, while the specific term may not be used today, the idea of tax collectors still evokes negative feelings due to issues of corruption and mismanagement.
Q. How does the concept of Telones relate to themes of redemption in Christianity?
A. Telones represents those who may seem lost or unworthy but can experience transformation and redemption through faith and repentance.
Q. Who was the most famous tax collector in the Bible?
A. Matthew, who later became one of Jesus’ apostles, is one of the most notable tax collectors mentioned in the New Testament.
Q. How does understanding Telones enhance our comprehension of New Testament teachings?
A. Recognizing the context of Telones enriches our understanding of Jesus’ mission of inclusivity, forgiveness, and the power of grace.
Q. What lessons can we learn from the Biblical view of tax collectors?
A. We learn about humility, the importance of compassion, and the understanding that everyone can seek forgiveness and redemption.
Q. Has the view of tax collectors changed in contemporary times?
A. While the negative connotations still exist, modern perspectives also recognize the complexities of tax collection as an essential civic duty.