Mark Chapter 10 · Verse 25
It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
Original Language Analysis
διὰ
through
G1223
διὰ
through
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
4 of 17
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
εἰς
into
G1519
εἰς
into
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
12 of 17
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
13 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
βασιλείαν
the kingdom
G932
βασιλείαν
the kingdom
Strong's:
G932
Word #:
14 of 17
properly, royalty, i.e., (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
15 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Luke 18:25For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.Matthew 23:24Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel.Jeremiah 13:23Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? then may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil.
Historical Context
Disciples response (v. 26) who then can be saved shows they understood Jesus meant impossible. Peter declares we left all (v. 28). Disciples gave up modest means recognized impossibility. God makes impossible possible (v. 27). Abraham justified by faith wealthy. Zacchaeus tax collector rich converted. Joseph Arimathea rich disciple. Not impossible but requires divine grace overcome temptation trust wealth. Early church had wealthy members warned about dangers. Modern church needs balance not demonize wealth but recognize spiritual danger. Faithful stewardship whether much little.
Questions for Reflection
- What does impossible image of camel through needle eye teach about human inability divine necessity in salvation?
- How can wealthy believers avoid trap of trusting riches while using resources for kingdom?
Analysis & Commentary
Easier for camel go through eye of needle than rich man enter kingdom. Easier eukopōteron less difficult. Camel kamēlon largest animal Palestine. Go through dielthein pass. Eye trēmatos opening. Needle raphidos sewing needle. Impossible image. Some suggest camel wrong translation should be rope kamēlos versus kamilos. Others suggest needle small gate requiring camel unload kneel. But likely hyperbole impossible. Rich entering kingdom humanly impossible. Only God can save rich. Salvation wholly grace. Reformed theology emphasizes divine necessity regeneration.