ProverbWisdom
Biblical origin
Biblical originMen strain at gnats, and swallow camels!
Meaning: Obsessing over trivial faults while tolerating serious wrongs reveals misplaced moral priorities and hypocrisy.
Where it's from: The Bible, Matthew 23:24
Origin: From Jesus' rebuke of the Pharisees in Matthew 23:24: "Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel." The devout strained their wine through cloth so as not to swallow an unclean insect, while overlooking far greater faults. It describes fussing over trifles while ignoring what really matters.
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Colorful expressions from dozens of languages, with their word-for-word translations.
- virar bicho To become extremely angry or enraged.
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- morde e assopra To hurt someone and then soothe them; to alternate harshness and kindness.
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