Exscriptural

/ɛkˈskrɪpʃərəl/ adjective

Definition

Not contained in or supported by scripture; outside or contrary to scriptural authority.

Etymology

From 'ex-' (out, without) combined with 'scriptural' (relating to scripture). This theological term developed to distinguish between doctrine based on sacred texts and doctrine derived from other sources.

Kelly Says

Religious scholars use 'exscriptural' to identify beliefs that came from tradition, culture, or interpretation rather than directly from the Bible—it's a way of marking where pure doctrine ends and human elaboration begins.

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