King James Version

What Does Matthew 23:7 Mean?

Matthew 23:7 in the King James Version says “And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 23 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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

Matthew 23:7 · KJV

Context

5

But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, phylacteries: pieces of parchment containing sentences of the law

6

And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues,

7

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

8

But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.

9

And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.

Read Matthew 23 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi. This verse continues Jesus' denunciation of scribal and Pharisaical hypocrisy, exposing their craving for public recognition and honor. The "greetings in the markets" (aspasamous en tais agorais, ἀσπασμοὺς ἐν ταῖς ἀγοραῖς) refers to elaborate, honorific salutations in public spaces where maximum visibility could be achieved. Markets were the ancient equivalent of public squares—centers of commercial and social interaction.

The title "Rabbi" (rabbi, ῥαββί) literally means "my great one" or "my master," a term of respect for teachers of the Law. The repetition "Rabbi, Rabbi" emphasizes their insatiable appetite for recognition and their manipulation of religion to gain social status. This wasn't about legitimate respect for teaching office but about pride and self-exaltation masquerading as piety.

Jesus' critique targets the heart attitude beneath outward religious performance. The scribes and Pharisees had transformed God's law from a means of knowing and serving Him into a platform for self-promotion. Their religion was performative rather than transformative, focused on human applause rather than divine approval. This warning remains relevant wherever religious leaders use ministry as a vehicle for personal glory rather than service.

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Historical & Cultural Context

In first-century Judaism, rabbis held positions of significant social authority and respect. The title "Rabbi" emerged during the Second Temple period as formal rabbinical schools developed. Scribes were professional students and teachers of the Torah, while Pharisees were a religious movement emphasizing strict Torah observance and oral tradition.

Public marketplaces in ancient cities served as social hubs where people gathered not just for commerce but for news, discussion, and social interaction. Being greeted respectfully in such public settings signaled social status and influence. The scribes and Pharisees' elaborate religious garments (verse 5) and their preference for prominent synagogue seats (verse 6) formed a pattern of status-seeking behavior.

Jesus delivered this scathing critique publicly in the temple courts, shortly before His crucifixion. His confrontation with religious leaders had been escalating throughout His ministry, but Matthew 23 represents His most comprehensive and severe denunciation. The historical irony is profound: those who claimed to represent God rejected the very Messiah they claimed to await, their spiritual pride blinding them to truth.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what ways do modern religious leaders seek public recognition and status rather than serving humbly?
  2. How can we guard against using spiritual service as a platform for personal glory?
  3. What is the difference between appropriate recognition of leadership and the pride Jesus condemns here?
  4. How does our culture's emphasis on platform and influence tempt us toward the Pharisees' error?
  5. What practical steps can we take to ensure our ministry is God-centered rather than self-centered?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
καὶ1 of 13

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

τοὺς2 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἀσπασμοὺς3 of 13

“greetings”

G783

a greeting (in person or by letter)

ἐν4 of 13

“in”

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

ταῖς5 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἀγοραῖς6 of 13

“the markets”

G58

properly, the town-square (as a place of public resort); by implication, a market or thoroughfare

καὶ7 of 13

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

καλεῖσθαι8 of 13

“to be called”

G2564

to "call" (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, directly or otherwise)

ὑπὸ9 of 13

“of”

G5259

under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (

τῶν10 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἀνθρώπων11 of 13

“men”

G444

man-faced, i.e., a human being

Ῥαββί.12 of 13

“Rabbi”

G4461

my master, i.e rabbi, as an official title of honor

Ῥαββί.13 of 13

“Rabbi”

G4461

my master, i.e rabbi, as an official title of honor

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 23:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 23:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

John 1:38John 1:49John 3:26John 20:16John 3:2John 6:25

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