So when you give to the needy, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward.
Therefore when thou doest [thine] alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. (b) Counterfeits, for hypocrites were players that played a part in a play.
A hypocrite hides his real sentiments and assumes religion for ostentation or applause. Those who sound a trumpet for their alms obtain the applause they seek and nothing more; that empty praise is all they wished for, and all they will ever receive.
AI summary
The Pharisees do not literally sound trumpets; they choose public places where all can see, then proclaim their deeds so they may have glory of men. This is the proverbial sense: making a noise about their charity so that nothing escapes notice or goes unrewarded by human praise.
AI summary