Matthew 6:2

do not sound a trumpet before thee The chests for alms in the Court of the Women, where the temple-treasury was placed, were called "trumpets" from their shape. Possibly the words of the text contain an allusion to these alms-chests. See Edersheim's Temple in the time of our Lord, ch. ii. p. 26. But perhaps the expression means simply, "avoid ostentation in almsgiving."

hypocrites Lit. actors; those who play a part in life, whose actions are not the true reflection of their thoughts, whose religion is external and unreal. Such men begin by deceiving others, but end in self-deception. It is against these that our Lord's severest reproofs are delivered.

in the synagogues To this day alms are given in the Jewish synagogues.

They have Strictly, have in full. Their reward is nowand on earth.