### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diÿlízō**, represented by `{{G1368}}`, means **to strain out**. It is derived from the words διά and (to filter). This specific term appears only **1 time** in the Bible, in a single verse, making its singular context highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1368}}` is in [[Matthew 23:24]], where it is used in a sharp rebuke. The verse describes "blind guides" who **strain at** a gnat but swallow a camel. This imagery powerfully contrasts a meticulous, almost obsessive, focus on a minor impurity with the complete ignorance of a much larger one. The action of straining is directed at a gnat `{{G2971}}`, while the contrasting action is to swallow `{{G2666}}` a camel `{{G2574}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context illuminate the meaning of `{{G1368}}`:
* `{{G2971}}` **kṓnōps** (a mosquito (from its stinging proboscis):--gnat): This is the small, insignificant object that is being meticulously strained out, highlighting a focus on trivial matters [[Matthew 23:24]].
* `{{G2666}}` **katapínō** (to drink down, i.e. gulp entire (literally or figuratively):--devour, drown, swallow (up)): This word provides the direct contrast to straining, representing the act of consuming something whole without notice, in this case, a camel [[Matthew 23:24]].
* `{{G2574}}` **kámēlos** (a "camel"): As the largest animal in the context, it represents a massive, unaddressed sin or hypocrisy, which is swallowed while the tiny gnat is strained [[Matthew 23:24]].
* `{{G3595}}` **hodēgós** (a conductor (literally or figuratively (teacher)):--guide, leader): This identifies who is performing the action—the religious leaders who are meant to lead others but are themselves spiritually misguided [[Matthew 23:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1368}}` is concentrated in its single, metaphorical use. It serves as a critique of misplaced spiritual priorities.
* **Critique of Hypocrisy:** The act of straining a gnat while swallowing a camel is a stark metaphor for hypocrisy, where an outward show of observing minor rules masks major moral and spiritual failures [[Matthew 23:24]].
* **Spiritual Blindness:** The term is directed at "blind guides" `{{G5185}}`, linking the physical act of straining to a condition of spiritual blindness. This blindness causes a complete inversion of what is important versus what is trivial.
* **Illustration of Legalism:** This single use of the word illustrates the error of a legalistic mindset that focuses on the letter of the law in its smallest details, while completely missing the greater principles of justice and faith.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1368}}` **diÿlízō** is a term whose meaning is defined entirely by its singular appearance. While it literally means "to strain out," its biblical significance is as a powerful component in a metaphor about religious hypocrisy. It captures the essence of focusing on the insignificant while being oblivious to monumental failings, a warning delivered to the "blind guides" in [[Matthew 23:24]].
TRV