OpenSynonym

rabbi

/ˈræbaɪ/

NOUN

1. A Jewish religious leader and teacher

A Jewish religious scholar who is qualified to teach, interpret, and apply Jewish law and often serves as a spiritual leader of a Jewish congregation.

1.1. Religious leadership and congregational guidance

Used to describe a Jewish religious leader who guides a congregation, provides spiritual counsel, and leads religious activities and ceremonies.

Synonyms

  • spiritual leader
  • religious leader
  • Jewish religious leader
  • clergyman
  • cleric

Examples

  • The rabbi led the congregation in prayer at the synagogue.
  • The community turned to their rabbi for spiritual guidance during a difficult time.
  • The rabbi organized a gathering to support families in the congregation.

Related Words

  • synagogue
  • congregation
  • Judaism
  • worship
  • sermon
  • spiritual guidance
  • religious ceremony

1.2. Jewish scholarship and religious instruction

Used when emphasizing a rabbi's expertise in Jewish scripture, religious teachings, traditions, and the interpretation of Jewish law.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The rabbi explained the passage from the Torah to his students.
  • She consulted a rabbi to better understand Jewish dietary laws.
  • The rabbi devoted years to studying the Talmud and interpreting Jewish tradition.

Related Words

NOUN

2. A Hebrew title of respect

A Hebrew honorific meaning approximately 'my master' or 'my teacher,' used as a respectful form of address for a Jewish religious teacher or scholar.

2.1. Respectful address for a religious teacher

Used as an honorific when addressing or referring respectfully to a Jewish scholar or religious teacher.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The student addressed his teacher respectfully as Rabbi.
  • In the discussion, the title Rabbi reflected the scholar's recognized religious standing.
  • The congregation greeted the visiting rabbi with respect.

Related Words

  • honorific
  • title
  • respect
  • Hebrew
  • religious tradition
  • teacher-student relationship