Matthew 15:3 (KJV)

What does Matthew 15:3 mean?

Matthew 15:3 records Jesus responding to a group of religious leaders by asking why they break God's commandment because of their own traditions. Jesus is challenging them for putting their customs above what God has actually commanded.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees and scribes who have questioned him about his disciples not following traditional handwashing rituals. Instead of answering their question directly, Jesus points out that their traditions sometimes lead them to ignore or even violate God's direct instructions. This sets the stage for a broader discussion about the difference between human rules and God's true intentions.

The Greek behind Matthew 15:3

• παραβαίνετε (parabainete, "transgress"): This word means to go beyond or break a rule or law. Here, Jesus is accusing the religious leaders of actively stepping over the boundaries set by God's commandment.
• ἐντολή (entolē, "commandment"): This refers to a specific instruction or order from God. The use of this word highlights that Jesus is talking about something God has clearly required, not just a general principle.
• παράδοσις (paradosis, "tradition"): This word means something handed down, usually referring to teachings or customs passed along by people. Jesus uses it to contrast human traditions with God's direct commands, emphasizing that traditions are not automatically equal to God's word.

Why Matthew 15:3 matters

• Matthew 15:3 clarifies that religious traditions, even if long-standing, should never override what God has clearly commanded.
• This verse highlights the tension between human customs and divine instructions, a theme that runs throughout Jesus' teachings.
• By confronting the religious leaders, Jesus sets up a key lesson for his followers about discerning what truly matters to God versus what is simply a human practice.