KJV word meaning
What does “Publican” mean in the Bible?
Publican = tax collector
“Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?”Matthew 9:11, King James Version
Explanation
A “publican” collected taxes for Rome and was widely distrusted.
More King James words
Anonat once, immediatelyBegatwas the father ofBeseechbeg, urge, pleadCharityloveComforterhelper, advocate (the Holy Spirit)Conversationway of life, behaviourCovetwant what belongs to someone elseFaingladly, eagerlyFirmamentsky, expanseHath, Dothhas, doesHoly GhostHoly SpiritHusbandmanfarmer, gardenerLethinder, hold backLolook, beholdLongsufferingpatienceMammonmoney, wealthMeatfood (any kind)Meeknessgentle strength, humilityPeradventureperhaps, what ifPreventgo before, come beforePublicantax collectorQuickliving, aliveRaimentclothingSorevery, greatlySufferallow, letTarrystay, waitTemperanceself-controlThee, Thou, Thy, Thineyou, your, yours (said to one person)TwaintwoVerilytruly, I tell you the truthVictualsfood, suppliesWistknewWotknowYeyou (plural)
Questions
What does publican mean in the KJV?
In the King James Version, “Publican” means tax collector. A “publican” collected taxes for Rome and was widely distrusted.
Why does the King James Bible use old words?
The King James Version was published in 1611, and English has changed since then. Some words have dropped out of use and others have changed meaning.