What is Tradition?

Traditions are practiced in many distinct forms. Traditions are commonly known as ritualistic practices that are passed on generation after generation; they're passed through society, family and individual influences. Some traditions are based on religious beliefs. Other traditions may provide an understanding of a particular culture. Whichever way a tradition is learned, it will always define the principles of customs for the people who practice them.

Religious Rituals

During religious holidays like Ramadan--where fasting food from dawn until dusk--a religious ritual makes a tradition of connecting with God through concentrated prayer and meditation.

Legendary Customs

There are legendary traditions like finding a four leaf clover or breaking a turkey wishbone for good luck. These customs are universal and are practiced by cultures that are not associated with the origins of the tradition.

Family Traditions

Family traditions are usually influenced by folklore or by the influence of the elders of the society. For instance, it is a custom for some African-American weddings to include a broom jumping ceremony, following the families who were married in this fashion during slavery.

Societal Traditions

Society also influences the practices of generational traditions. Familiar Sweet Sixteen parties are an example of rites of passage ceremonies that many American teenagers go through at the age of sixteen.

Cultural Traditions

Traditions can begin with fellowship. Sportsmanship passed on from father to son is one way that cultures can start and share traditions.

Individual Traditions

Individual customs can be practiced in solitude and usually hold a profound reasoning behind the ritual. Making a New Year's Resolution is a practice that many individuals choose to make.