Sacred Tradition

Introduction

Sacred Tradition, also known as Holy Tradition, is a theological term used in some Christian traditions to signify the fundamental basis of church authority. It encompasses the teachings of the Church Fathers and the decisions of Ecumenical Councils, along with the liturgy and prayers of the Church. This concept is closely related to, but distinct from, Sacred Scripture, which is the written teachings of the Church.

A photograph of an ancient religious manuscript, symbolizing Sacred Tradition.

Theological Basis

The theological basis of Sacred Tradition is rooted in the belief that the Church, through the Holy Spirit, preserves and passes down the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Apostles. It is seen as a living and dynamic process, rather than a static collection of historical documents. The concept of Sacred Tradition is most prominently found in the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, and some Anglican and Lutheran churches.

Sacred Tradition in Different Christian Denominations

Roman Catholicism

In Roman Catholicism, Sacred Tradition is considered one of the two sources of divine revelation, the other being Sacred Scripture. The Church teaches that Sacred Tradition and Sacred Scripture are bound closely together and communicate one with the other. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that Sacred Tradition and Sacred Scripture make up a single sacred deposit of the Word of God.

Eastern Orthodoxy

In the Eastern Orthodox Church, Sacred Tradition is understood to be the revelation of God, delivered by Jesus Christ to the Apostles, and passed on in the Church from one generation to the next without addition, alteration or subtraction. It is considered the life of the Holy Spirit in the Church.

Oriental Orthodoxy

Oriental Orthodox Churches also hold a high view of Sacred Tradition. They believe that the Holy Spirit guides the Church to interpret Scripture and maintain the correct path of faith and practice.

Anglicanism

In Anglicanism, Sacred Tradition is considered one of the three pillars of the Anglican Communion, along with Scripture and Reason. The Anglican view of Sacred Tradition is more flexible than in Roman Catholicism or Eastern Orthodoxy, and it is often interpreted in light of Reason and historical circumstances.

Lutheranism

In Lutheranism, Sacred Tradition is understood as the practices, rituals, and beliefs that are passed down through generations of believers. While Lutherans hold the Bible as the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice, they also respect and uphold the historical practices and teachings of the Church.

Criticism and Controversy

Sacred Tradition has been a point of contention among different Christian denominations. Some Protestant groups, such as Baptists and most Evangelicals, reject the concept of Sacred Tradition and hold to the doctrine of Sola Scriptura, which asserts that the Bible alone is the authoritative source of divine revelation.

Conclusion

Sacred Tradition plays a significant role in many Christian denominations, serving as a link between the original teachings of Jesus and the Apostles and the contemporary practices of the Church. Despite differences in understanding and application, Sacred Tradition is a testament to the enduring nature of Christian faith and practice.