NEW TESTAMENT · VERSE 5

Matthew 23:5

But they do all their works to be seen by men. They make their phylacteries^† broad and enlarge the fringes^† of their garments,

THE SURROUNDING PASSAGE

Matthew 23:5 in context

Matthew 23:2–8

saying, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat.

All things therefore whatever they tell you to observe, observe and do, but don’t do their works; for they say, and don’t do.

For they bind heavy burdens that are grievous to be borne, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not lift a finger to help them.

Selected verse

But they do all their works to be seen by men. They make their phylacteries^† broad and enlarge the fringes^† of their garments,

and love the place of honor at feasts, the best seats in the synagogues,

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

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

Notes from World English Bible Updated

phylacteries (tefillin in Hebrew) are small leather pouches that some Jewish men wear on their forehead and arm in prayer. They are used to carry a small scroll with some Scripture in it. See Deuteronomy 6:8.
or, tassels

Read the complete chapter in World English Bible Updated.