The Difference between a Camel and a Rich Man

It’s one of the most familiar metaphors of Jesus, and probably of the most misquoted as well. I’m talking about the statement Jesus made to his disciples after his conversation with a man who has come to be known as the Rich Young Ruler (see Luke 18:18-25).  After Jesus challenged the man to let go of his wealth, give it to the poor and to simply follow him, the man “became very sad, because he was a man of great wealth,” (Luke 18:23). Upon seeing the rich man’s response, Jesus offered the following insight: How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God! Indeed, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God (Luke 18:24-25).

The part of Jesus’ story that most folks remember is the camel and the eye of the needle part. That fascinates people. The idea of a camel literally trying to go through the eye of a needle is ridiculous. Jesus was obviously using a metaphor to make a point. But unfortunately, many people still don’t hear Jesus’ message. Jesus never said that it’s impossible for those with more than enough to get to heaven, but he did say it can be very difficult.

What people often don’t know is that scholars believe there was a narrow gate in the Jerusalem wall called The Needle. It was designed for pedestrian access only. A merchant or traveler who was bringing goods into the city via camel would most likely not be able to use this entrance, as it would be next to impossible for the fully burdened beast to fit through the opening. Jesus may have been referencing this gate when he made the statement. Either way, Jesus’ point was that those who are burdened with wealth often find their financial and material loads prohibitive to their spiritual progress. He was saying that having more than enough tends to hinder, not help, one’s ability to know and love God.

From Enough: Finding More by Living with Less