Topical Bible: The Jews: National Character of Fondness for Traditionary Customs

◄ The Jews: National Character of Fondness for Traditionary Customs ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Jewish people, throughout their history, have been characterized by a profound attachment to traditionary customs. This fondness for tradition is deeply rooted in their identity and religious practices, as evidenced by numerous biblical accounts and historical records. The adherence to customs and traditions has played a significant role in preserving the Jewish faith and cultural identity through centuries of dispersion and adversity.

Biblical Foundations

The foundation of Jewish traditionary customs is found in the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, which contain the laws and commandments given by God to the people of Israel. These laws were intended to set the Israelites apart as a holy nation. In Deuteronomy 6:6-9 , the importance of passing down these commandments is emphasized: "These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as reminders on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorposts of your houses and on your gates."

The Jewish people were instructed to remember and observe the Sabbath, as seen in Exodus 20:8-11 , which states, "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God." This commandment highlights the importance of tradition in maintaining a rhythm of life centered around worship and rest.

Historical Continuity

Throughout the Old Testament, the Jewish people are depicted as maintaining their customs even in foreign lands. In the Book of Esther, Mordecai's refusal to bow to Haman (Esther 3:2-4) is an example of steadfast adherence to Jewish customs despite external pressures. Similarly, Daniel's commitment to prayer, as described in Daniel 6:10 , demonstrates the importance of maintaining religious practices even in the face of persecution.

The post-exilic period saw a renewed emphasis on tradition as the Jewish people sought to reestablish their identity. The reading of the Law by Ezra in Nehemiah 8:1-8 illustrates the communal reaffirmation of their customs and laws. This event marked a significant moment in the reconstitution of Jewish society around their traditional practices.

Rabbinic Tradition and Oral Law

The development of the Oral Law, later codified in the Mishnah and Talmud, further exemplifies the Jewish commitment to tradition. The Oral Law served as an interpretative guide to the written Torah, ensuring that the commandments could be applied to changing circumstances. This body of work reflects the dynamic nature of Jewish tradition, balancing continuity with adaptation.

Jesus' interactions with the Pharisees in the New Testament often highlight the tension between tradition and the spirit of the Law. In Mark 7:8-9 , Jesus criticizes the Pharisees, saying, "You have disregarded the commandment of God to keep the tradition of men." This passage underscores the potential for tradition to overshadow the core principles of faith, a theme that resonates throughout the Gospels.

Cultural and Religious Identity

The Jewish fondness for traditionary customs is not merely a matter of religious observance but is deeply intertwined with cultural identity. Festivals such as Passover, Sukkot, and Hanukkah are celebrated with rituals that have been passed down through generations, serving as reminders of God's faithfulness and the historical experiences of the Jewish people.

In the diaspora, Jewish communities have maintained their distinctiveness through adherence to dietary laws, Sabbath observance, and life-cycle events such as circumcision and bar mitzvah. These customs have provided a sense of continuity and belonging, reinforcing the collective memory and identity of the Jewish people.

The Jewish national character, marked by a fondness for traditionary customs, is a testament to their resilience and commitment to preserving their faith and identity. This enduring attachment to tradition has enabled the Jewish people to navigate the challenges of history while remaining rooted in their covenantal relationship with God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Jeremiah 44:17
But we will certainly do whatever thing goes forth out of our own mouth, to burn incense to the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings to her, as we have done, we, and our fathers, our kings, and our princes, in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem: for then had we plenty of victuals, and were well, and saw no evil.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ezekiel 20:18,30,21
But I said to their children in the wilderness, Walk you not in the statutes of your fathers, neither observe their judgments, nor defile yourselves with their idols:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Mark 7:3,4
For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders.
Torrey's Topical Textbook