Ask AI: What were the fees and taxes charged to the people in Jerusalem at the time of John the Baptist, Jesus and Barabbas?

The tax system during the time of John the Baptist, Jesus, and Barabbas was quite complex, pertaining both to the Roman Empire and Jewish religious life. 1. **Roman Empire Taxes**: Rome demanded taxes from its provinces. The main forms were: - **Tributum**: Paid by non-Roman citizens in conquered territories. The amount varied depending on the area's wealth and could be in the form of money, goods, or labor. - **Census Tax**: A form of wealth or property tax. - **Indirect Taxes**: These might include customs duties (portoria), sales taxes, and tolls for using roads and bridges. 2. **Temple Tax**: Jewish adults had to make an annual half shekel contribution to the upkeep of the Jerusalem Temple, according to Exodus 30:11-16. This tax, called a Temple tax or sanctuary shekel, was mandated by Jewish Law and was payable even if a person lived outside of Jerusalem. 3. **Tithes and offerings**: Although not technically taxes, Jewish law also required faithful Jews to give a tenth (a "tithe") of their income to support the Levites (the priest class), along with additional offerings during Jewish holidays and other occasions. The burdensome Roman tax system, combined with mandatory religious contributions, placed a significant financial burden on everyday people in Jerusalem. Remember to verify specific tax rates and systems during this period as there might be variations based on different sources.