Matthew 15:2-4

Expanded Bible

² “Why don’t your ·followers [disciples] obey the ·unwritten laws which have been handed down to us [^Ltraditions of the elders]? [^LFor] They don’t wash their hands before they eat [^Ca Jewish ritual for ceremonial purity].”

³ Jesus answered, “And why do you ·refuse to obey [break; violate] God’s command ·so that you can follow your own teachings [^Lfor the sake of your traditions]? ⁴ God said, ‘Honor your father and your mother [Ex. 20:12; Deut. 5:16],’ and ‘Anyone who ·says cruel things to [speaks evil of; curses] his father or mother must be put to death [Ex. 21:17; Lev. 20:9].’