Zacchaeus
    pure, a superintendant of customs; a chief tax-gather
    (publicanus) at Jericho (Luke 19:1-10). "The collection of
    customs at Jericho, which at this time produced and exported a
    considerable quantity of balsam, was undoubtedly an important
    post, and would account for Zacchaeus being a rich man." Being
    short of stature, he hastened on before the multitude who were
    thronging about Christ as he passed through Jericho on his way
    to Jerusalem, and climbed up a sycamore tree that he might be
    able to see him. When our Lord reached the spot he looked up to
    the publican among the branches, and addressing him by name,
    told him to make haste and come down, as he intended that day to
    abide at his house. This led to the remarkable interview
    recorded by the evangelist, and to the striking parable of the
    ten pounds (Luke 19:12-27). At Er-riha (Jericho) there is a
    large, venerable looking square tower, which goes by the
    traditional name of the House of Zacchaeus.