Bible Dictionary
Elements
In Scripture, “elements” can mean the basic constituents of creation or the elementary principles of religious instruction. In Galatians and Colossians, the expression refers to rudimentary and inadequate religious observances apart from the fullness found in Christ.
Biblical Usage
In 2 Peter the elements are described as being dissolved. In Galatians and Colossians, the elements of the world refer to elementary religious observances and types associated with the former state of religious knowledge before Christ.
Scripture References