### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **trymaliá**, represented by `{{G5168}}`, denotes an **orifice**, specifically the **eye** of a needle. It is derived from a word meaning "to wear away" and appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, where it is used to create a powerful and memorable illustration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G5168}}` is found exclusively within a specific teaching of Jesus. In both [[Mark 10:25]] and [[Luke 18:25]], the word is part of the phrase "the **eye** of a needle." This phrase is used to articulate a seemingly impossible scenario, stating that it is **easier** `{{G2123}}` for a **camel** `{{G2574}}` to go **through** `{{G1223}}` this tiny **orifice** than it is for a **rich man** `{{G4145}}` to **enter** `{{G1525}}` the **kingdom** `{{G932}}` of **God** `{{G2316}}`. The analogy's purpose is to highlight the profound spiritual difficulty associated with wealth.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential for understanding the context of **trymaliá**:
* `{{G4476}}` **rhaphís**: Defined as a **needle**, this word is inseparable from `{{G5168}}`, forming the complete image "a needle's **eye**" [[Luke 18:25]]. It comes from a primary word meaning to sew or puncture.
* `{{G2574}}` **kámēlos**: This word for **camel** provides the scale for the impossibility in the analogy. It is the large object that cannot pass through the small orifice [[Mark 10:25]].
* `{{G4145}}` **ploúsios**: Meaning **wealthy**, this term identifies the subject of the teaching. The difficulty of entering the kingdom is applied specifically to a **rich man** [[Mark 10:25]], though the term can also describe God, who is **rich** in mercy [[Ephesians 2:4]].
* `{{G932}}` **basileía**: Translated as **kingdom**, this word represents the spiritual realm that is so difficult for the wealthy to attain. Entry into the **kingdom** of God is a central theme, and the focus of this stark comparison [[Luke 18:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5168}}` comes from its role in this vivid analogy:
* **An Image of Impossibility:** The "needle's **eye**" is used to create a hyperbole. The physical impossibility of a **camel** `{{G2574}}` passing through such a small **orifice** is meant to be a startling image that illustrates a deep spiritual truth.
* **The Obstacle of Riches:** The specific purpose of the analogy is to frame earthly riches as a significant challenge to entering the **kingdom of God** `{{G932}}`. It is **easier** `{{G2123}}` for the impossible physical act to occur **than** `{{G2228}}` for a **rich man** `{{G4145}}` to **enter** `{{G1525}}` the kingdom [[Mark 10:25]].
* **A Call to Dependence:** By presenting an impossible scenario, the use of `{{G5168}}` underscores that entry into God's **kingdom** `{{G932}}` is not achievable through human effort or advantage, a theme seen when one must be born of the Spirit to **enter** `{{G1525}}` it [[John 3:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5168}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is entirely defined by its two appearances. As the "eye" of a needle, it is the focal point of a famous analogy that serves as a stark and unforgettable warning about the spiritual dangers of wealth. It powerfully illustrates how a single, concrete image can convey a complex theological concept regarding the difficulty of entering the kingdom of God.
TRV