Answer :
Final answer:
The Essenes were an ascetic Jewish sect emphasizing purity and spirituality, while publicans held a low social status as tax collectors.
Explanation:
The Essenes were a Jewish sect in ancient times who lived an austere and communal lifestyle, focusing on spiritual purity, prayer, and contemplation. They resided in desert communities, such as the famous one at Qumran, and practiced rituals like baptism for purification.
The publicans in Jewish society held a low social status due to their role as tax collectors for the Romans. They were often viewed negatively by the Jewish population for collaborating with the occupying forces and perceived as traitors.
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