Define Parables

In the Greek world, parables were comparisons, illustrations, types or figures. In the New Testament, parables often illustrated a truth in a story through a comparison to everyday events.

Origin

The word for parable in Greek comes from the Hebrew word "mashal:" a proverb or wisdom saying. Jesus used parables in the New Testament to teach, describe and even hide things from those around him, extending the traditional meaning and use of parables.

Distribution of Usage

In the New Testament, the word is most often used in reference to stories Jesus told. The Gospel writer John never uses it, and it only occurs twice outside of the other Gospels.

Purpose

These sayings of various lengths illustrated some truth about the Kingdom of God. Some, like the parable of the sower, were intended to conceal; others, like the parable of the wicked tenants, were intended to pass judgment on religious leaders.

Historical Interpretation

Throughout Christian history, parables have been interpreted allegorically, often with interpreters finding a new, hidden meaning for every object or figure in the story.

Modern Interpretation

Scholars have begun to recognize that there may be only one or two main points behind each parable, and some purport a single, unifying purpose behind each parable.

References

• A Greek - English Lexicon of the New Testament and other Early Christian Literature, Third Edition; Fredrick William Danker, ed.; 2000
• Interpreting the Parables; Craig Blomberg; 1990