Mark 10:25
What does Mark 10:25 mean?
A plain-English look at Mark 10:25 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Mark 10:25 means
Jesus uses a striking hyperbole, stating that it is easier for a camel to pass through a needle's eye than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God. This vivid image emphasizes the human impossibility of salvation for those who depend on their wealth. It is not literally impossible for a camel, but metaphorically highlights the profound difficulty that self-sufficiency through riches creates.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000It is easier for a camel to go through a needle’s eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
KJV
King James Version · 1611It 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.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901It is easier for a camel to go through a needle’s eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949It is simpler for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a man of wealth to come into the kingdom of God.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862It is easier for a camel through the eye of the needle to enter, than for a rich man to enter into the reign of God.'
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom ofGod.
Context
Building on His teaching about the difficulty for those trusting in riches, Jesus employs a powerfully illustrative hyperbole. This memorable image underscores the human impossibility of a wealthy person entering the Kingdom, further astonishing the disciples and prompting their crucial question about who, then, can be saved.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Matthew 23:24
Ye blind guides, that strain out the gnat, and swallow the camel!
- Matthew 19:24
And again I say unto you, 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.
- Jeremiah 13:23
Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? then may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil.
- Luke 18:25
For it is easier for a camel to enter in through a needle’s eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
- Matthew 7:3
And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?
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