Matthew 15:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 15:2
2 Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.
Chapter Context
Matthew 15 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, holiness, fellowship. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-39: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 15:2
2 Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.
Analysis
The Pharisees' accusation focuses on ceremonial hand-washing, part of the 'tradition of the elders'—oral interpretations and expansions of Mosaic Law. The Greek 'paradosis' (tradition) here refers to human additions to divine revelation. Reformed theology recognizes this as the perennial temptation to elevate human interpretations to the level of Scripture itself. The disciples' failure to observe this ritual becomes the occasion for Jesus to distinguish between God's commandments and human traditions.
Historical Context
The hand-washing tradition wasn't biblical law but developed during the intertestamental period. Originally applied to priests, it was extended to all Jews by Pharisaic interpretation. This ritualistic washing aimed to remove ceremonial, not physical, contamination. Mark's gospel explains this custom for Gentile readers (Mark 7:3-4).
Reflection
- What religious practices do you observe from tradition rather than biblical command?
- How can you distinguish between helpful traditions and burdensome additions to faith?
- When does adherence to tradition become spiritual pride?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Mark 7:2, Luke 11:38, Colossians 2:8, 1 Peter 1:18