Tradition

Tradition (Greek paradosis, "that which is handed over") refers in Scripture to teaching passed down from one generation to another, whether oral or written. The word is used neutrally in Paul's letters to describe apostolic teaching delivered to the churches (1 Corinthians 11:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:15; 3:6), where he commends believers for holding to the traditions he has transmitted. However, in the Gospels the term frequently carries a negative force: Jesus rebukes the Pharisees and scribes for setting aside the commandment of God to keep "the tradition of the elders" (Mark 7:3, 9, 13; Matthew 15:2–6), specifically citing the corban practice as an example of tradition nullifying divine law. Paul likewise warns against philosophy and "vain deceit, after the tradition of men" as opposed to Christ (Colossians 2:8). The tension between received tradition and living divine authority is a recurring theme in both Testaments, resolved in the New Testament by the priority of Christ and the apostolic witness over accumulated human custom.