A.T. Robertson Commentary Matthew 23:7

"and the salutations in the marketplaces, and to be called of men, Rabbi." — Matthew 23:7 (ASV)

Salutations (ασπασμους). The ordinary courtiers were coveted because in public. They had an itch for notice. There are occasionally today ministers who resent it if they are not called upon to take part in the services at church. They feel that their ministerial dignity has not been recognized.