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

MATTHEW 23:7KJV
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Matthew 23:7 (KJV)

What does Matthew 23:7 mean?

Matthew 23:7 describes people who enjoy being greeted with respect in public places and being called “Rabbi” by others, highlighting their desire for honor and special titles. The verse points out a craving for public recognition and status among certain religious leaders.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to the crowds and His disciples about the scribes and Pharisees. The setting is a warning against the religious leaders’ love for outward displays of respect and their pursuit of prestigious titles. Jesus is drawing attention to how these leaders seek admiration and authority rather than focusing on genuine humility or service.

The Greek behind Matthew 23:7

  • ἀγορὰς (agoras, “markets”): This word refers to public marketplaces, which were central gathering spots in ancient towns. The mention of greetings in the markets emphasizes how public and visible these displays of honor were.
  • ῥαββί (rhabbi, “Rabbi”): This title means “my teacher” or “my master.” The repetition (“Rabbi, Rabbi”) underlines the eagerness of these leaders to be addressed with respect and to be seen as authorities in spiritual matters.

Why Matthew 23:7 matters

  • Matthew 23:7 clarifies that Jesus is not condemning the title “Rabbi” itself, but rather the desire to be exalted and recognized above others.
  • The verse helps readers see the broader theme of Matthew 23, where Jesus criticizes religious hypocrisy and the pursuit of status over sincerity.
  • Understanding this verse sheds light on the difference between true spiritual leadership, which is humble and service-oriented, and false leadership that seeks personal honor.

Where else these words appear

“greetings” Greek G783 · used in 10 verses

  • Mark 12:38 And he said unto them in his doctrine, Beware of the scribes, which love to go in long clothing, and love salutations in the marketplaces,
  • Luke 1:44 For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.
  • 1 Corinthians 16:21 The salutation of me Paul with mine own hand.

“markets” Greek G58 · used in 11 verses

  • Matthew 11:16 But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows,
  • Mark 7:4 And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups, and pots, brasen vessels, and of tables.
  • Luke 11:43 Woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye love the uppermost seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets.

“Rabbi” Greek G4461 · used in 15 verses

  • Matthew 23:8 But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.
  • Mark 11:21 And Peter calling to remembrance saith unto him, Master, behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered away.
  • John 3:26 And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him.

“called” Greek G2564 · used in 138 verses

  • Matthew 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
  • Luke 8:2 And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils,
  • Romans 9:26 And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God.