do as I say and not as 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 not imitate my behavior but obey my instructions.
“Do as I say, not as I do,” is said sarcastically by someone. It means, “I know I'm contradicting myself, because I never... ...
An admonitory order is sometimes followed by a self-deprecating phrase, Do as I say , not as I do ,
