New International Versionthey love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by others.
New Living TranslationThey love to receive respectful greetings as they walk in the marketplaces, and to be called ‘Rabbi.’
English Standard Versionand greetings in the marketplaces and being called rabbi by others.
Berean Standard Biblethe greetings in the marketplaces, and the title of ‘Rabbi’ by which they are addressed.
Berean Literal Bibleand the greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called 'Rabbi' by men.
King James BibleAnd greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
New King James Versiongreetings in the marketplaces, and to be called by men, ‘Rabbi, Rabbi.’
New American Standard Bibleand personal greetings in the marketplaces, and being called Rabbi by the people.
NASB 1995and respectful greetings in the market places, and being called Rabbi by men.
NASB 1977and respectful greetings in the market places, and being called by men, Rabbi.
Legacy Standard Bibleand respectful greetings in the marketplaces, and being called Rabbi by men.
Amplified Bibleand to be greeted [with respect] in the market places and public forums, and to have people call them Rabbi.
Christian Standard Biblegreetings in the marketplaces, and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by people.
Holman Christian Standard Biblegreetings in the marketplaces, and to be called ‘Rabbi by people.
American Standard Versionand the salutations in the marketplaces, and to be called of men, Rabbi.
Contemporary English VersionAnd when they are in the market, they like to have people greet them as their teachers.
English Revised Versionand the salutations in the marketplaces, and to be called of men, Rabbi.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationThey love to be greeted in the marketplaces and to have people call them Rabbi.
Good News Translationthey love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to have people call them 'Teacher.'
International Standard Versionto be greeted in the marketplaces, and to be called 'Rabbi' by people.
NET Bibleand elaborate greetings in the marketplaces, and to have people call them 'Rabbi.'
New Heart English Biblethe greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called 'Rabbi' by people.
Webster's Bible TranslationAnd greetings in the markets, and to be called by men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
Weymouth New Testamentand like to be bowed to in places of public resort, and to be addressed by men as 'Rabbi.' Majority Text Translations Majority Standard Biblethe greetings in the marketplaces, and the title of ‘Rabbi, Rabbi’ by which they are addressed.
World English Biblethe salutations in the marketplaces, and to be called ‘Rabbi, Rabbi by men. Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionand the salutations in the marketplaces, and to be called by men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
Berean Literal Bibleand the greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called 'Rabbi' by men.
Young's Literal Translation and the salutations in the market-places, and to be called by men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
Smith's Literal TranslationAnd greetings in the markets, and to be called by men, Rabbi, Rabbi. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd salutations in the market place, and to be called by men, Rabbi.
Catholic Public Domain Versionand greetings in the marketplace, and to be called Master by men.
New American Biblegreetings in marketplaces, and the salutation ‘Rabbi.’
New Revised Standard Versionand to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have people call them rabbi. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd the greetings in the streets, and to be called by men, Rabbi.
Aramaic Bible in Plain EnglishAnd greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called, “Rabbi”, by the people. NT Translations Anderson New Testamentand salutations in the markets, and to be called by men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
Godbey New Testament
and salutations in the forums, and to be called by the people, "Doctor."
Haweis New Testament
and salutations in the places of public concourse, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
Mace New Testament
to be saluted in publick places, and to have men address to them with the title of Doctor Doctor.
Weymouth New Testament
and like to be bowed to in places of public resort, and to be addressed by men as 'Rabbi.'
Worrell New Testament
and the salutations in the marketplaces, and to be called by men 'Rabbi.'
Worsley New Testament
and the chief seats in the synagogues, and salutations in public assemblies, and to be called by men Rabbi, Rabbi.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Woes to Scribes and Pharisees… 6They love the places of honor at banquets, the chief seats in the synagogues, 7thegreetingsinthemarketplaces,andthe titleof ‘Rabbi’bywhich they are addressed.8But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers.…
Cross References Matthew 6:5And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward.
Luke 11:43Woe to you Pharisees! For you love the chief seats in the synagogues and the greetings in the marketplaces.
Luke 20:46“Beware of the scribes. They like to walk around in long robes, and they love the greetings in the marketplaces, the chief seats in the synagogues, and the places of honor at banquets.
Mark 12:38-39In His teaching Jesus also said, “Watch out for the scribes. They like to walk around in long robes, to receive greetings in the marketplaces, / and to have the chief seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets.
John 5:44How can you believe if you accept glory from one another, yet do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?
John 12:43For they loved praise from men more than praise from God.
James 2:1-4My brothers, as you hold out your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, do not show favoritism. / Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. / If you lavish attention on the man in fine clothes and say, “Here is a seat of honor,” but say to the poor man, “You must stand” or “Sit at my feet,” ...
3 John 1:9I have written to the church about this, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not accept our instruction.
Romans 2:29No, a man is a Jew because he is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a man’s praise does not come from men, but from God.
Galatians 1:10Am I now seeking the approval of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.
1 Thessalonians 2:6Nor did we seek praise from you or from anyone else, although as apostles of Christ we had authority to demand it.
Proverbs 25:27It is not good to eat too much honey or to search out one’s own glory.
Proverbs 27:2Let another praise you, and not your own mouth—a stranger, and not your own lips.
Isaiah 29:13Therefore the Lord said: “These people draw near to Me with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. Their worship of Me is but rules taught by men.
Isaiah 65:5They say, ‘Keep to yourself; do not come near me, for I am holier than you!’ Such people are smoke in My nostrils, a fire that burns all day long.
Treasury of Scripture And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi. Rabbi. John 1:38,49 Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou? … John 3:2,26 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him… John 6:25 And when they had found him on the other side of the sea, they said unto him, Rabbi, when camest thou hither? Jump to Previous AddressedBowedGreetedGreetingsLoveMarketMarketplacesMarket-PlacesMarketsPlacesPublicRabbiResortRespectRespectfulSalutationsTeacherWordsJump to Next AddressedBowedGreetedGreetingsLoveMarketMarketplacesMarket-PlacesMarketsPlacesPublicRabbiResortRespectRespectfulSalutationsTeacherWordsMatthew 23 1.Jesus admonishes the people to follow good doctrine, not bad examples5.His disciples must beware of their ambition.13.He denounces eight woes against their hypocrisy and blindness,34.and prophesies of the destruction of Jerusalem.the greetings in the marketplacesIn the time of Jesus, marketplaces were central hubs of social and economic activity. They were not only places for buying and selling goods but also for public gatherings and social interactions. The Pharisees and teachers of the law enjoyed being greeted with respect and honor in these public spaces, which signified their social status and authority. This desire for public recognition highlights their focus on outward appearances rather than inward righteousness. The marketplace setting underscores the contrast between the public persona and private devotion, a theme Jesus frequently addressed. This behavior is reminiscent of the warnings in Proverbs about seeking honor and the dangers of pride ( Proverbs 16:18). and the title of ‘Rabbi’ by which they are addressed
The title "Rabbi" means "my teacher" or "my master" and was a term of respect and authority in Jewish culture. It signified a person who was knowledgeable in the Law and capable of teaching others. The Pharisees and scribes relished this title as it elevated their status among the people. Jesus criticized this desire for titles and recognition, emphasizing that true greatness in the Kingdom of Heaven is found in humility and service (Matthew 23:11-12). This critique aligns with Jesus' teachings on leadership and servanthood, as seen in His own example of washing the disciples' feet (John 13:14-15). The use of the title "Rabbi" also foreshadows the New Testament emphasis on Christ as the ultimate Teacher and Master, who alone deserves such reverence (Matthew 23:8). Persons / Places / Events 1. Pharisees and ScribesReligious leaders in Jewish society during Jesus' time, known for their strict adherence to the Law and traditions. They are often criticized by Jesus for their hypocrisy and pride. 2. MarketplacesPublic places where people gathered for trade and social interaction. They were central to community life and a place where religious leaders could be seen and honored. 3. RabbiA title of respect and authority in Jewish culture, meaning "teacher" or "master." It was a term of honor that the Pharisees and scribes desired for themselves. Teaching Points Pride and RecognitionJesus warns against seeking titles and recognition for self-glorification. True leadership in the Kingdom of God is marked by humility and service, not by the pursuit of honorific titles. Authentic FaithBelievers are called to live authentically, valuing God's approval over human accolades. Our actions should reflect a genuine faith that seeks to honor God rather than seeking human praise. Servant LeadershipJesus models servant leadership, teaching that greatness in His Kingdom is measured by one's willingness to serve others rather than by one's status or title. Guarding Against HypocrisyWe must examine our motives in religious practices and leadership roles, ensuring that they align with God's will and not with a desire for personal glory. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Matthew 23:7?
2.How does Matthew 23:7 warn against seeking titles for personal honor today?
3.What does "greetings in the marketplaces" reveal about the Pharisees' priorities?
4.How can we ensure our actions align with humility taught in Matthew 23:7?
5.Compare Matthew 23:7 with Philippians 2:3. How should we view others?
6.How can church leaders avoid the pitfalls highlighted in Matthew 23:7?
7.Why does Matthew 23:7 criticize the use of honorific titles like "Rabbi"?
8.How does Matthew 23:7 reflect on religious authority and leadership?
9.What historical context influenced the message in Matthew 23:7?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Matthew 23?
11.Why did Jesus instruct not to call anyone father?
12.Who was the Virgin Mary?
13.What caused Jesus to feel anger?
14.What does the Bible say about narcissism?What Does Matthew 23:7 Mean The greetings in the marketplaces-Matthew 23:7 begins by noting that the religious leaders “love the greetings in the marketplaces.” Those bustling squares were the social hubs of first-century towns. • Jesus exposes a heart-issue: craving admiration more than pleasing God (compareMatthew 6:1-2;Mark 12:38;Luke 20:46). • Public applause feels rewarding, yetProverbs 29:25 warns, “The fear of man is a snare.” • True greatness, Jesus says, flows from serving others quietly (Matthew 20:26-28;Philippians 2:3-4). • For believers today, the lesson is clear: refuse to measure spiritual impact by how many notice us. Instead, aim for the Father’s “well done” (Matthew 25:21;Colossians 3:23-24).
The title of “Rabbi” by which they are addressed- The same verse continues, “and the title of ‘Rabbi’ by which they are addressed.” “Rabbi” was an honorable designation for a teacher. • Jesus immediately counters inMatthew 23:8, “But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers.” He is not condemning the role of teaching (Ephesians 4:11-12) but the hunger for spiritual status. • When titles overshadow servanthood, pride creeps in (3John 9-10).James 3:1 cautions that teaching invites stricter judgment, underscoring humility rather than prestige. • The only name that deserves exalting is Christ’s (Acts 4:12;Philippians 2:9-11). By keeping Him at the center, ministry titles stay tools, not trophies.
summaryMatthew 23:7 exposes the Pharisees’ love of public praise and lofty titles. Jesus calls His followers to a different path—quiet service, mutual brotherhood, and wholehearted focus on the one true Teacher. In every era, applauding crowds and impressive labels tempt God’s people, yet Scripture’s consistent cure is humble devotion to Christ alone. (7) Greetings in the markets.--The greetings referred to were more than the familiar "Peace with thee," and involved the language of formal reverence (comp. Note on Luke 10:4) paid to those whom men delighted to honour. Rabbi, Rabbi.--The title, which properly meant a "great" or "chief" one, as in Rab-Mag ("the chief priest,"Jeremiah 39:3), Rabsaris ("the chief eunuch,"2Kings 18:17), had come to be applied, in the days of Hillel and Shammai, to the teachers or "masters" of the Law, and, as such, was given to the scribes who devoted themselves to that work. In Rabban (said to have been first given to Simeon, the son of Hillel) and Rabboni (John 20:16) we have forms which were supposed to imply a yet greater degree of reverence. Verse 7. - Greetings in the markets. They loved to be denoted as superiors by respectful salutations in public places. To be called Rabbi, Rabbi; "My Master" (compare the French Monsieur, used not only vocatively, but absolutely); the term addressed by scholars to their teacher, and repeated for ostentation's sake, of course implying superiority in those thus called. Christ himself was thus addressed by those who desired to denote his authority and preeminence ( Matthew 22:16, 24, 36; comp. John 1:38). These greetings and salutations were enjoined on scholars and inferiors, under pain of ecclesiastical censure and loss of salvation.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek theτοὺς(tous)Article - Accusative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.greetingsἀσπασμοὺς(aspasmous)Noun - Accusative Masculine Plural
Strong's 783:A greeting, salutation. From aspazomai; a greeting.inἐν(en)Preposition
Strong's 1722:In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.theταῖς(tais)Article - Dative Feminine Plural
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.marketplaces,ἀγοραῖς(agorais)Noun - Dative Feminine Plural
Strong's 58:From ageiro; properly, the town-square; by implication, a market or thoroughfare.andκαὶ(kai)Conjunction
Strong's 2532:And, even, also, namely.the titleκαλεῖσθαι(kaleisthai)Verb - Present Infinitive Middle or Passive
Strong's 2564:(a) I call, summon, invite, (b) I call, name. Akin to the base of keleuo; to 'call'.of ‘Rabbi’Ῥαββί(Rhabbi)Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 4461:Of Hebrew origin; my master, i.e Rabbi, as an official title of honor.byὑπὸ(hypo)Preposition
Strong's 5259:A primary preposition; under, i.e. of place, or with verbs; of place (underneath) or where (below) or time (when).[which they are addressed].ἀνθρώπων(anthrōpōn)Noun - Genitive Masculine Plural
Strong's 444:A man, one of the human race. From aner and ops; man-faced, i.e. A human being.
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NT Gospels: Matthew 23:7 The salutations in the marketplaces (Matt. Mat Mt) |
