### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **patroparádotos**, represented by `{{G3970}}`, refers to something that is **received by tradition from fathers**. Derived from πατήρ and a derivative of παραδίδωμι, it carries the sense of being handed down through generations. It appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its single usage highly specific and significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{G3970}}` is in [[1 Peter 1:18]], where it describes the "vain conversation" from which believers are redeemed. This traditionary way of life is presented as empty and something to be freed from. The verse explicitly states that this redemption was not accomplished with **corruptible things** `{{G5349}}`, such as **silver** `{{G694}}` and **gold** `{{G5553}}`. Instead, `{{G3970}}` is used to define the futile, inherited past that stands in stark contrast to the new life and true ransom provided to believers.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words from its context help illuminate the meaning of `{{G3970}}`:
* `{{G3084}}` **lytróō** (to ransom): This word signifies the act of redemption. It establishes that believers were **redeemed** from the lifestyle **received by tradition from your fathers** [[1 Peter 1:18]], a concept also connected to the hope of redeeming Israel [[Luke 24:21]].
* `{{G3152}}` **mátaios** (vain): This adjective describes something as empty or profitless. The behavior passed down by the fathers is specifically labeled as **vain** [[1 Peter 1:18]], a term also used to describe faith without the resurrection [[1 Corinthians 15:17]] and fruitless religion [[James 1:26]].
* `{{G391}}` **anastrophḗ** (behavior): This refers to a manner of life or conduct. The traditions from the fathers are identified with a specific **conversation** from which believers are freed [[1 Peter 1:18]]. In contrast, believers are called to a holy **conversation** in all things [[1 Peter 1:15]].
* `{{G5349}}` **phthartós** (corruptible): Meaning perishable or decayed, this word is used for things like silver and gold that are powerless to redeem from inherited traditions [[1 Peter 1:18]]. It contrasts with the incorruptible crown believers work for [[1 Corinthians 9:25]] and the incorruptible seed of God's word [[1 Peter 1:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3970}}` is centered on the nature of salvation and sanctification.
* **Insufficiency of Human Heritage:** The term powerfully communicates that salvation is not passed down through lineage or human tradition. The "vain conversation **received by tradition from your fathers**" [[1 Peter 1:18]] is a condition that requires redemption *from*, demonstrating that ancestral ways are ultimately empty (**mátaios** - `{{G3152}}`).
* **The Value of Redemption:** By contrasting the inability of **corruptible things** `{{G5349}}` to **redeem** `{{G3084}}` from this state, the word elevates the immense value of the true ransom. It decisively shifts the basis of salvation away from material or man-made systems and toward a spiritual deliverance from a futile inheritance [[1 Peter 1:18]].
* **Transformation of Behavior:** Freedom from what was **received by tradition from your fathers** `{{G3970}}` necessitates a radical break from a past way of life (**anastrophḗ** - `{{G391}}`). It signifies a move from an old, inherited identity to a new, holy conduct that reflects one's calling by God [[1 Peter 1:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3970}}` is a focused term that encapsulates the concept of an inherited way of life that is ultimately profitless. Its singular use in scripture is pivotal, serving as a powerful reminder that redemption is a deliverance **from** the **vain** `{{G3152}}` and **corruptible** `{{G5349}}` traditions of humanity, not a continuation of them. It defines the past in order to magnify the grace and power of the ransom that offers a new, holy **conversation** `{{G391}}`.
TRV