Strong’s G3970: A compound adjective meaning “handed down from fathers” or “received by tradition from ancestors.” Used to describe inherited customs and beliefs. In NT context, refers to former way of life from which believers were redeemed through Christ’s blood.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πατροπαράδοτος describes traditions and customs inherited from previous generations. In its NT context, Peter uses it to contrast the empty way of life inherited from ancestors with the new life in Christ. The early church understood it as representing the old patterns of life that needed transformation. Today, it helps us evaluate cultural inheritances in light of gospel truth.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πατροπαράδοτος, patroparadotos, [pa-tro-pa-RA-do-tos]
• Detailed pronunciation: pah-tro-pah-RAH-doe-toss
• Part of Speech: Adjective

Etymology:

• πατρο- (father)
• παρα- (from, beside)
• δοτος (given)
• Compound of three elements forming “given from fathers”

D – Defining Meanings

• Handed down from fathers
• Received by tradition
• Inherited from ancestors

For compound words:

• πατρο- indicates paternal source
• παρα- indicates transmission
• -δοτος indicates the giving/receiving action

Translation Options:

• Handed down from ancestors – Most complete meaning
• Traditionally received – Emphasizing transmission
• Inherited from fathers – Emphasizing source

E – Exploring Similar Words

• παράδοσις [paradosis, pa-RA-do-sis] – tradition in general
• πατρικός [patrikos, pa-tree-KOS] – paternal
• κληρονομία [klēronomia, klay-ro-no-MEE-ah] – inheritance

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

• Compound Adjective
• Three Gender Forms:
• Masculine: πατροπαράδοτος
• Feminine: πατροπαράδοτη
• Neuter: πατροπαράδοτον
• Second Declension pattern
• Cross-references: παράδοσις (tradition)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its cultural significance. Thayer’s notes its unique NT usage. LSJ traces similar compounds in classical Greek. Vine’s highlights its contrast with Christian newness. Moulton and Milligan show its use in family inheritance contexts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“Knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers [πατροπαράδοτος], but with the precious blood of Christ.” (1 Peter 1:18)

Additional References:
No other biblical references

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πατροπαράδοτος helps us understand how Christ redeems us not just from individual sins but from inherited patterns of empty living. The gospel offers freedom from limiting traditions while preserving what is truly valuable in our heritage.

D – Did You Know?

1. Rare compound word in ancient Greek literature
2. Used in legal documents about inheritance rights
3. Became important in early church discussions about Jewish customs

Strong’s G3970: A compound adjective meaning “handed down from fathers” or “received by tradition from ancestors.” Used to describe inherited customs and beliefs. In NT context, refers to former way of life from which believers were redeemed through Christ’s blood.

Part of speech: Adjective

Tags: #Tradition #Heritage #Redemption #Culture #AncestralCustoms #Inheritance #ChristianLife #Transformation #PeterEpistles #FamilyTraditions​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​