Extra-biblical Revelation

Oriental Orthodox churches affirm that divine revelation is transmitted through both Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. The Tradition includes the definitions and canons of the three Ecumenical Councils accepted by these churches (Nicaea I, Constantinople I, and Ephesus), the writings of the Church Fathers, the canons of local and regional synods, the ancient liturgies, and the living faith of the Church in each generation.

Because Oriental Orthodox churches accept only three Ecumenical Councils (in contrast to the seven accepted by Chalcedonian Christians), the scope of formally binding conciliar Tradition differs from that of Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches. However, this does not diminish the weight of Tradition in Oriental Orthodox thought—the patristic and liturgical heritage is regarded as an indispensable guide to the interpretation of Scripture. Private revelations, regardless of their source, do not add to the deposit of faith.