The Tradition of the Elders

Matthew 15

Matthew 15:1 Then the scribes and the Pharisees came to him from Jerusalem, saying:

Matthew 15:2 “Why do your disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? For they do not wash their hands when they eat bread.”

Matthew 15:3 But responding, he said to them: “And why do you transgress the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition? For God said:

Matthew 15:4 ‘Honor your father and mother,’ and, ‘Whoever will have cursed father or mother shall die a death.’

Matthew 15:5 But you say: ‘If anyone will have said to father or mother, “It is dedicated, so that whatever is from me will benefit you,”

Matthew 15:6 then he shall not honor his father or his mother.’ So have you nullified the commandment of God, for the sake of your tradition.

Matthew 15:7 Hypocrites! How well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying:

Matthew 15:8 ‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.

Matthew 15:9 For in vain do they worship me, teaching the doctrines and commandments of men.’ ”