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ῥαββί (rhabbi)

rhabbi

Rabbi

G4461 · Greek · New Testament · 15 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
15 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The Greek word rhabbi is a respectful title used to address Jewish teachers, translating the Aramaic and Hebrew term for "my master" or "my great one." It appears fifteen times in the New Testament, primarily within the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and John. The sources indicate that this form was commonly used when speaking directly to a teacher, serving as a mark of honor and recognition of their authority.

This term is applied to Jesus by various individuals throughout his ministry. In Matthew 23:7-8, it appears in a list of titles people sought for themselves, highlighting how such honorifics were viewed socially. More intimately, disciples use it when seeking guidance, as seen when they ask Jesus where he is staying (John 1:38) or when Peter asks him to explain a parable (Matthew 15:15). The related form Rabboni, meaning "my great master," appears only twice in Mark and John, often in moments of intense personal appeal.

The etymology traces back to the root rab, meaning "great" or "exalted." By adding a possessive suffix, the word becomes a personal address: "my master." This distinction separates it from more formal titles like kyrios (Lord), which carries theological weight about divinity. Rhabbi focuses on the human relationship of student to teacher, emphasizing respect for instruction and wisdom rather than divine status alone.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word rhabbi simply means "my teacher." It was a common way for students to address a respected instructor in first-century Judea. When people used this title, they were acknowledging that the person had wisdom worth learning. In the Gospels, followers call Jesus rhabbi when they want to understand his teachings or seek his guidance in daily life.

This humble address reminds us that following Jesus begins with a willingness to learn. It is not about status or power, but about a relationship built on trust and instruction. Whether you are asking for direction like the disciples in John 1:38 or seeking clarity in difficult moments, calling him Teacher invites his patient response.

Jesus accepted this role without demanding special honors for himself. He taught with authority yet remained accessible to those who asked simple questions. This word encourages us to approach him with openness, ready to receive the wisdom he offers for our lives today.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 15 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Rabbi,10×
  • Rabbi3×
  • Rabbi?1×
  • Rabbi;1×
  • Rabbi.1×
  • Rabbi!1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • ῥαββί,12×
  • ῥαββί2×
  • ῥαββί·1×
  • ῥαββί;1×
  • ῥαββί.1×

Key Verses

  • John 1:38
    Jesus turned and saw them following, and said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which is to say, being interpreted, Teacher), “where are you staying?”

    This verse explicitly translates rhabbi as "Teacher," clarifying its basic meaning for readers who might not know Aramaic.

  • Matthew 23:8
    But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi’, for one is your teacher, the Christ, and all of you are brothers.

    Jesus redefines the title by stating that he alone is the ultimate Teacher, shifting focus from human honor to divine authority.

  • John 11:8
    The disciples asked him, “Rabbi, the Jews were just trying to stone you. Are you going there again?”

    The disciples use this term while expressing fear, showing how rhabbi serves as a bridge between personal vulnerability and trust in Jesus' leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the word rhabbi mean?

It is an Aramaic term meaning "my teacher" or "my master." In the New Testament, it was a respectful way for students to address their instructor. John 1:38 specifically translates it as "Teacher" for clarity.

How is rhabbi different from Lord?

While rhabbi emphasizes the relationship of student to teacher, the Greek word kyrios (Lord) carries deeper theological weight regarding authority and divinity. Jesus accepted both titles but often corrected the misuse of honorifics like rhabbi when they became sources of pride.

Who called Jesus rhabbi?

Various groups used this title, including his disciples (John 1:38), religious leaders like Nicodemus (John 3:2), and even Judas Iscariot during the arrest (Matthew 26:49). It was a standard address for respected teachers in that culture.

Every Occurrence (15 verses across 3 books)

Matthew 4 verses
Matthew 23:7

the salutations in the marketplaces, and to be called ‘Rabbi, Rabbi’ by men.

Matthew 23:8

But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi’, for one is your teacher, the Christ, and all of you are brothers.

Matthew 26:25

Judas, who betrayed him, answered, “It isn’t me, is it, Rabbi?” He said to him, “You said it.”

Matthew 26:49

Immediately he came to Jesus, and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him.

Mark 3 verses
John 8 verses