The answer is: Eye of a needle

Mark 10:25

The image of a camel squeezing through the eye of a needle is truly iconic and memorable! It's a humorous, yet striking visual that highlights the challenges wealth can impose on spiritual life. The rich man—often portrayed in biblical narratives—faces specific temptations that can divert focus from higher values, making that kingdom of God feel far away. One charming piece of trivia is that some interpretations suggest “the eye of the needle” might have been a small gate in Jerusalem, a metaphor that softens the strict implication of the text. However, many modern scholars argue that this concept doesn’t hold up historically.

Another fascinating aspect is the paradox of wealth. In the ancient world, wealth was often seen as a sign of God's blessing. Yet, this teaching by Jesus challenges that notion, indicating that true treasure lies not in gold coins but in the depth of one’s character and actions. The moral? It's quite a needle's eye—meant to provoke thought, laughter, and self-assessment!

This verse echoes across all holiness narratives: the rich ruler must contemplate a radical shift in values. It aligns with other radical teachings that emphasize humility, sharing, and prioritizing community bonds over personal riches. Just like David when he circumvents the easy egotism in Psalms by placing trust in a higher power rather than earthly gains, it invites self-reflection about our own riches—be they financial or in other pursuits. Are we riding the camel or fitting it gracefully through the gate?