or RABBINS, a title which the Pharisees and doctors of the law among the Jews assumed, and literally signifies masters or excellent.

There were several gradations before they arrived at the dignity of a rabbi; which was not conferred till they had acquired the profoundest knowledge of the law and the traditions. It does not, however, appear that there was any fixed age or previous examination necessary; but when a man had distinguished himself by his skill in the written and oral law, and passed through the subordinate degrees, he was saluted a rabbin by the public voice.

Among the modern Jews, for near 700 years past, the learned men retain no other title than that of rabbi, or rabbins; they have great respect paid them, have the first places or seats in their synagogues, determine all matters of controversy, and frequently pronounce upon civil affairs; they have even power to excommunicate the disobedient.