Reb
Encyclopedia
Reb is a Yiddish honorific
traditionally used for Orthodox Jewish
men. It is not a rabbinic title; it is the equivalent of the English "mister". In writing it is abbreviated as 'ר.
, as a sign of loyalty to Rabbinic Judaism
.
When a man's name is unknown, he is often addressed as Reb Yid ("Mr Jew").
Honorific
An honorific is a word or expression with connotations conveying esteem or respect when used in addressing or referring to a person. Sometimes, the term is used not quite correctly to refer to an honorary title...
traditionally used for Orthodox Jewish
Orthodox Judaism
Orthodox Judaism , is the approach to Judaism which adheres to the traditional interpretation and application of the laws and ethics of the Torah as legislated in the Talmudic texts by the Sanhedrin and subsequently developed and applied by the later authorities known as the Gaonim, Rishonim, and...
men. It is not a rabbinic title; it is the equivalent of the English "mister". In writing it is abbreviated as 'ר.
History
The title was adopted by Orthodox Jews at the time of the schism with the KaraitesKaraite Judaism
Karaite Judaism or Karaism is a Jewish movement characterized by the recognition of the Tanakh alone as its supreme legal authority in Halakhah, as well as in theology...
, as a sign of loyalty to Rabbinic Judaism
Rabbinic Judaism
Rabbinic Judaism or Rabbinism has been the mainstream form of Judaism since the 6th century CE, after the codification of the Talmud...
.
Usage
When addressing someone directly, Reb is usually used with the first name only ("May I help you, Reb Chaim?"). In other circumstances, it can be used with either the first name or the full name ("This is Reb Chaim Jacobs."; "Would you please help Reb Chaim?"). In formal written address, it is usually used along with the full name. It is never used with the surname alone.When a man's name is unknown, he is often addressed as Reb Yid ("Mr Jew").