Reconsidering the Hyperbolic Camel (Mark 10,25)

Abstract Although Mark 10,25 is widely regarded as a prototypical example of hyperbole, the reasons for this are often unspecified. That is problematic. In what follows, modern and ancient discussions of hyperbole will be used in an attempt to resolve the problem. Relevance theory assumes that hyperbole comprises both a scalar (saying more or less about something than is the case) and an expressive (i.e. evaluative/emotional) quality. To be successful, the hearer must distinguish between the propositional meaning (the more or less that is said about something) and the intended meaning (what is accepted as the case). Ancient discussions recognize the scalar and expressive qualities of hyperbole, but add a further consideration, namely, the linguistic features employed in its construction. This article concludes that Mark 10,25 was understood literally by the disciples, but that it displays the features necessary to qualify as hyperbolic, and that it was undoubtedly understood that way by Mark’s readers. The disciples’ misunderstanding is used by the evangelist to lead the dialogue into a consideration of the importance of divine goodness for salvation.