πατροπαράδοτος (patroparadotos)
patroparadotos
from forefathers
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective patroparadotos describes something handed down from one’s fathers or ancestors. It combines words for "father" and "handing over," creating a term that emphasizes inheritance through tradition rather than direct revelation. This rare word appears only once in the New Testament, in 1 Peter 1:18.
Peter uses it to contrast two ways of life: the empty way inherited from ancestors and the costly redemption purchased by Christ. The term highlights how cultural or religious practices can become burdensome when they replace genuine faith. By calling this inheritance "empty," the text suggests that traditions, however old, lack saving power if they do not lead to Christ.
Its uniqueness in Scripture underscores Peter’s point about breaking free from inherited patterns. The word reminds readers that spiritual freedom comes not from following ancestral customs but from trusting in the resurrection of Jesus. This single usage captures a profound shift from tradition to grace.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word patroparadotos describes a way of life passed down through generations, inherited like family heirlooms or cultural habits. In 1 Peter 1:18, this term highlights how easily traditions can become empty routines if they replace a living relationship with God. It reminds us that spiritual freedom does not come from following ancestral customs but from trusting in the redemption found in Christ.
When we recognize the weight of inherited patterns, we are invited to look beyond what was handed down to us. The text contrasts these old ways with the precious blood of Jesus, which offers true liberation. This shift from tradition to grace allows us to find our identity not in history or habit, but in the costly love that rescues us.
May this understanding bring you peace as you examine your own life. Instead of being bound by what others have done, you are free to rest in the new life offered through faith. Let this truth encourage you to value personal trust in God over mere conformity to the past.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- handed down from [your] fathers,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πατροπαραδότου,1×