Devine Scripture

Matthew 23:7

What does Matthew 23:7 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 23:7 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 23:7 means

Continuing the critique of their pursuit of honor, Jesus points out that the scribes and Pharisees relish public greetings in the marketplaces and eagerly desire to be addressed with the title "Rabbi." This title, meaning "my great one" or "my teacher," conveyed significant respect and authority. Their longing for such recognition in public spaces further demonstrates their pride and their craving for human adulation, rather than seeking glory for God. This desire for honor runs contrary to the spirit of humility Jesus teaches.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

and the salutations in the marketplaces, and to be called of men, Rabbi.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

and the salutations in the marketplaces, and to be called of men, Rabbi.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And words of respect in the market-places, and to be named by men, Teacher.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and the salutations in the market-places, and to be called by men, Rabbi, Rabbi.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And salutations in the market place, and to be called by men, Rabbi.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

and salutations in the market-places, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.

Context

This verse concludes the initial list of specific examples illustrating the scribes' and Pharisees' self-serving externalism and hunger for human recognition. From their clothing and seating, it moves to their desire for public adulation through greetings and honorific titles. This comprehensive portrayal of their pride then serves as the perfect springboard for Jesus to introduce a contrasting model of humble leadership and true discipleship, beginning in the very next verse.

v.6and love the chief place at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues,

v.7This passage

v.8But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your teacher, and all ye are brethren.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • John 6:25

    And when they found him on the other side of the sea, they said unto him, Rabbi, when camest thou hither?

  • John 3:26

    And they came unto John, and said to him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond the Jordan, to whom thou hast borne witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him.

  • John 3:2

    the same came unto him by night, and said to him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that thou doest, except God be with him.

  • Mark 9:5

    And Peter answereth and saith to Jesus, Rabbi, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah.

  • Mark 10:51

    And Jesus answered him, and said, What wilt thou that I should do unto thee? And the blind man said unto him, Rabboni, that I may receive my sight.

  • Matthew 23:8

    But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your teacher, and all ye are brethren.

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