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Rabbi
In the New Testament, a “Rabbi” was a Jewish man who taught other people about the Old Testament and other things the Jewish leaders believed. The word “Rabbi” means “my master” or “my lord.” People honored a Jewish teacher when they called him “Rabbi” (see: Mark 9:5; 11:21; John 1:38, 49; 3:26). The word “Rabboni” was used to show even more honor to a Jewish teacher (see: Mark 10:51; John 20:16).
See: Old Testament (Law and Prophets); Lord
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Jesus spoke against the Pharisees because they wanted people to call them “Rabbi” (see: Matthew 23:7). The Pharisees were prideful and wanted other people to honor them (see: Matthew 23:6). Jesus told his disciples not to use the name “Rabbi’ to talk about themselves. This is because Jesus wanted his disciples to be servants and not to act the way that masters or lords act (see: Matthew 23:8, 11-12).
See: Pride; Serve (Servant, Slave); Disciple; Pharisee