What does Matthew 15:3 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 15:3 raises a point of contention between Jesus and the Pharisees, the religious leaders of the time.

The Pharisees had questioned Jesus about why his disciples did not follow the traditional Jewish ritual of handwashing before eating.

In response, Jesus turns the question back on them, challenging the Pharisees' own adherence to God's commandments.

He accuses them of valuing their own traditions over the commandments of God.

The deeper meaning here ties into a central theme in the gospels where Jesus often criticizes the religious leaders for their hypocrisy and for emphasizing ceremonial law over the more important moral laws and the spirit of love, mercy, and justice that should underpin them.

Historical Context

During the time of Jesus, Jewish society was highly structured around the Law of Moses and the interpretations of that law by religious authorities.

There were many additional rules and traditions that had been developed by the religious leaders, known as the "traditions of the elders." These traditions were not part of the written Torah but were nonetheless considered binding by many.

Handwashing, mentioned earlier in Matthew 15, was one of these traditions and was meant as a ritual purification, not merely cleanliness.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints might emphasize various aspects of this verse.

A conservative interpretation might focus on the authority of scriptural commandments over human tradition.

On the other hand, a liberal viewpoint might highlight the social justice aspect, emphasizing the heart and spirit of the law over legalistic adherence to tradition.

Liberation theology may use this verse to argue for the prioritization of God's commandments, which in this line of thought often advocate for the marginalised and oppressed.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Matthew 15:3 invites believers to examine their own practices and traditions to ensure they align with God's commandments.

It suggests that one should be vigilant about not letting cultural customs or societal norms override the essential tenets of faith, love, and compassion. Applied to daily life, this can extend to any situation where adherence to tradition may overshadow more important moral considerations.

Cross-References

• Mark 7:8-9: "For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.

And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition."

• Isaiah 29:13: "Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:"
• Colossians 2:8: "Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ."

Language Study

In the original Greek, the phrase "transgress the commandment of God" is "παραβαίνετε τὴν ἐντολὴν τοῦ Θεοῦ" (parabainete tēn entolēn tou Theou).

The word "παραβαίνετε" (parabainete), from the root verb "παραβαίνω" (parabaino), literally means "to step aside from" or "to transgress." The word "ἐντολὴ" (entolē) means "commandment" or "order." This language shows a willful deviation from the path or order that God has set.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Many religions have faced the tension between tradition and original teachings.

For instance, in Hinduism, there is often a distinction made between what is outlined in Shruti texts, considered to be divinely revealed, and Smriti texts, which are based on human memory and tradition.

Similarly, the debate between adherence to original commandments and later-developed traditions is also present in Islam between Quranic injunctions and Hadith.

Scientific Perspectives

This verse does not directly engage with scientific perspectives, but the broader discourse about tradition over commandments might be reflected in the examination of human behaviour, customs, and their propensity to hold onto established patterns.

Cognitive science suggests that humans have a natural tendency to conform to group norms and traditions, even when presented with evidence or commands that challenge those norms.

Commentaries

Commentary from historical sources like John Calvin emphasizes the accusation Jesus makes against the Pharisees, that they "had set aside the law of God, and were wholly occupied with observing human traditions." More contemporary theologians, like N.T.

Wright, reflect on this verse as a critique of societies and churches that can be tempted to institutionalize and prioritize traditions over the compassionate and ethical teachings central to faith.

Matthew Henry's Commentary discusses this verse as an admonition that the outward acts of worship are secondary to the true obedience of moral laws.