One of Jesus' most well-known parables is the **Parable of the Good Samaritan**, found in the Gospel of Luke 10:25-37. Here's a brief explanation of it:
### The Parable
A man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho is attacked by robbers, who strip him of his clothes, beat him, and leave him half-dead. Several people pass by the injured man:
1. A priest, representing religious leadership, sees the man but chooses to cross the road and avoid him.
2. A Levite, another figure associated with religious duties, does the same—he also avoids helping.
3. Finally, a Samaritan—a group despised by many Jews at the time—comes across the man. Despite cultural animosity, the Samaritan shows compassion: he tends to the man's wounds, takes him to an inn, and pays for his care.
### The Meaning
Jesus told this parable in response to a question: **"Who is my neighbor?"** Through this story, He challenged social norms and prejudices, teaching that love and compassion transcend cultural, racial, or religious boundaries. The Samaritan’s actions demonstrated what it means to "love your neighbor as yourself."
This parable reminds us that true faith isn't just about religious observance—it's about actively showing grace, mercy, and kindness to those in need, regardless of who they are.
Comments