do as I say and not as I do

English

Alternative forms

• do what I say, not what I do

Etymology

This simplified order first appeared in John Selden's Table-Talk (c. 1654): "Preachers say, 'Do as I say, not as I do.'"
The original parsing is found in the New Testament (Matthew 23:1-3; King James Version): “Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, Saying The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat: All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.”

Proverb

do as I say and not as I do

1. (as imperative) Do not imitate my behavior but obey my instructions.
   • 2006, J. G. Thirlwell (lyrics and music), “Sieve”, in Damp, performed by Foetus:

     Do what I say now, not what I do
     The dilettantish peekaboo

Translations

See also

• hypocrisy