Mat 23:24 | RWP | e4.org | Strain out the gnat ( διυλιζοντες τον κωνωπα ). By filtering through ( δια ), not the "straining at" in swallowing so crudely suggested by the misprint in the A.V. Swallow the camel ( την δε καμηλον καταπινοντες ). Gulping or drinking down the camel. An oriental hyperbole like that in . See also , ; ; . Both insects and camels were ceremonially unclean ( , , , ). "He that kills a flea on the Sabbath is as guilty as if he killed a camel" (Jer. Shabb. 107).

‏ Matthew 23:24

Strain out the gnat ( διυλιζοντες τον κωνωπα ). By filtering through ( δια ), not the "straining at" in swallowing so crudely suggested by the misprint in the A.V.

Swallow the camel ( την δε καμηλον καταπινοντες ). Gulping or drinking down the camel. An oriental hyperbole like that in 19:24. See also 5:29, 30; 17:20; 21:21. Both insects and camels were ceremonially unclean (Le 11:4, 20, 23, 42). "He that kills a flea on the Sabbath is as guilty as if he killed a camel" (Jer. Shabb. 107).