Fathers

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What the Fathers say

Matthew 15:20

Western Saints

Thomas Aquinas

Hence these are the things that defile a man, because these proceed from the mind. But to eat with unwashed hands does not defile a man. Here he concludes, and presents this conclusion so as to respond to the principal point. Likewise, because the disciples were not understanding, he concludes that it was being said only against the tradition.

Commentary on Matthew ↗

Glossa Ordinaria

And because these words of the Lord had been occasioned by the iniquity of the Pharisees, who preferred their traditions to the commands of God, He hence concludes that there was no necessity for the foregoing tradition, But to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.

Catena Aurea by Aquinas ↗

Remigius of Rheims

Having named the vices which are forbidden by the divine Law, the Lord beautifully adds, These are they that defile a man, that is, make him unclean and impure.

Catena Aurea by Aquinas ↗