Introduction

Understanding Greek words like κάμηλος (kamēlos) is vital for Biblical studies because they often carry deeper meanings than their English translations. The term κάμηλος, meaning “camel,” is significant in interpreting passages that employ symbolism or metaphors in the New Testament, reflecting both spiritual lessons and cultural elements of the ancient Mediterranean world.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: κάμηλος, transliterated as kamēlos, pronounced [KAH-may-los].
• Etymology: Likely derived from a Semitic root word, reflecting the shared vocabulary between Greek and Semitic languages in the ancient trade routes where camels were common.
• Part of Speech: Noun, masculine; follows the second declension pattern in Greek grammar.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Camel: A large, domesticated mammal commonly used as a beast of burden in desert regions, known for its endurance and ability to go without water for extended periods.

Similar Words: δρόμος (dromos) [DROH-mos], meaning “runner” or “race,” can be confused due to its similar context in ancient texts about trade or travel but differs as it refers more to the activity or the course rather than the animal used in that context.

Further Insights: The word κάμηλος offers insight into the trade and transportation networks of the ancient world, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa, where camels were essential for caravans. It also appears in several metaphorical contexts in the New Testament, emphasizing impossibility or difficulty, as seen in the famous saying about a camel passing through the eye of a needle.
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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines κάμηλος as “camel,” particularly noting its use in the saying of Jesus about the difficulty of a rich person entering the Kingdom of God (Matthew 19:24).
• Thayers: Notes the literal meaning of κάμηλος and discusses its figurative usage to illustrate spiritual truths in the context of wealth and salvation.
• Vines: Focuses on the symbolic use of κάμηλος in teachings about humility and spiritual challenges.
• LSJ: Lists κάμηλος simply as “camel” with references to both biblical and non-biblical texts, highlighting its role in ancient Near Eastern trade.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Identifies κάμηλος as “camel” and cites its occurrence in various New Testament passages to illustrate moral teachings and parables.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 19:24: “Again I say to you, it is easier for a camel [κάμηλος] to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.”
• Mark 10:25: “It is easier for a camel [κάμηλος] to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.”
• Luke 18:25: “For it is easier for a camel [κάμηλος] to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.”

Classical Usage

Summary of κάμηλος (G2574)

The Greek word κάμηλος translates to “camel” and appears in various New Testament passages, often in metaphorical contexts to illustrate spiritual principles. The term’s use in sayings, parables, and other teaching moments emphasizes the difficulties of attaining spiritual enlightenment and humility. Its presence in both biblical and non-biblical literature underscores its cultural significance in ancient trade and travel.

Did You Know?

• The camel has been a symbol of patience and endurance in many cultures due to its ability to travel long distances without water.
• The expression involving a camel passing through the eye of a needle has been widely debated among scholars, with interpretations ranging from literal to hyperbolic to symbolic.
• The word κάμηλος appears in several ancient Greek texts outside the Bible, emphasizing its role in ancient commerce and daily life.

Understanding κάμηλος provides a clearer picture of the social, economic, and theological contexts of the New Testament and ancient Mediterranean culture.