Rabbi

Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897)

My master, a title of dignity given by the Jews to their doctors of the law and their distinguished teachers. It is sometimes applied to Christ (Matt. 23:7, 8; Mark 9:5 (R.V.); John 1:38, 49; 3:2; 6:25, etc.); also to John (3:26).

Scripture References

ISBE

rab'-i, rab'-i (rabbi; rhabbi, or rhabbei): A term used by the Jews of their religious teachers as a title of respect, from rabh, "great," so "my great one" (compare Latin magister), once of masters of slaves, but later of teachers ( Mt 23:7 ); therefore translated by didaskalos, "teacher" ( Mt 23:8 ; Joh 1:38 ; compare Joh 1:49 ). In the King James Version frequently rendered "Master" ( Mt 26:25 , 49 ; Mr 9:5 ; 11:21 ; 14:45 ; Joh 4:31 ; 9:2 ; 11:8 ). John the Baptist ( Joh 3:26 ), as well as Christ, is addressed with the title ( Joh 1:49 ; 6:25 ), both by disciples and others. Jesus forbade its use among His followers ( Mt 23:8 ). Later (Galilean) form of same, RABBONI (which see). See TALMUD for Rabbinical literature. Edward Bagby Pollard

Smith's Bible Dictionary (1863)

a title of respect signifying master, teacher, given by the Jews to their doctors and teachers, and often addressed to our Lord. (Matthew 23:7,8; 26:25,49; Mark 9:6; 11:21; 14:45; John 1:38,49; 3:2,26; 4:31; 6:25; 9:2; 11:8) Another form of the title was Rabboni. (John 20:16) The titles were used with different degrees of honor; the lowest being rab, master then rabbi, my master ; next rabban, our master ; and greatest of all, Rabboni, my great master .

Scripture References