The Samaritan
The parable of the Good Samaritan, found in Luke 10:25-37, tells the story of a man who is attacked by robbers and left for dead. A priest and a Levite pass by without helping, but a Samaritan, who is typically despised by Jews, stops to help the injured man. He bandages his wounds, takes him to an inn, and pays for his care. This story emphasizes the importance of compassion, breaking down social barriers, and loving one's neighbor through actionable kindness, regardless of their background.
7/18/20242 min read
My post content
The Story and Significance of the Good Samaritan
The parable of the Good Samaritan is one of the most well-known stories told by Jesus in the New Testament. Found in the Gospel of Luke (Luke 10:25-37), this parable has profound implications for understanding compassion, neighbourliness, and breaking down societal barriers. Here's a closer look at the story and its significance.
The Context
The parable is introduced when a lawyer or religious law expert approaches Jesus with a question: "Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" Jesus responds by asking what is written in the Law, to which the lawyer correctly answers, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and soul and with all your strength and with all your mind," and "Love your neighbour as yourself."
The lawyer, seeking to justify himself, asks Jesus, "And who is my neighbour?" This question sets the stage for the parable.
The Parable
Jesus tells the story of a man travelling from Jerusalem to Jericho whom robbers attack. They strip him of his clothes, beat him, and leave him half-dead by the side of the road. A priest happens to be going down the same route, but when he sees the man, he passes by on the other side. So, a Levite, when he comes to the place and sees the man, passes by on the other side.
But a Samaritan, as he travels, comes to where the man is. When he sees him, he takes pity on him. He goes to him and bandages his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he puts the man on his donkey, brings him to an inn, and takes care of him. The next day, he takes out two denarii and gives them to the innkeeper. "Look after him," he says, "and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have."
The Significance
Compassion and Action
The Samaritan's actions exemplify genuine compassion. Unlike the priest and the Levite, who may have been motivated by religious purity laws or fear, the Samaritan acts with mercy. He does not just feel pity; he takes practical steps to help the injured man, even at great personal expense and risk.
Breaking Down Barriers
At the time, Jews and Samaritans had a long history of mutual hostility. By making a Samaritan the hero of the story, Jesus challenges his listeners' prejudices. The parable suggests that one's "neighbour" is not limited by ethnicity, religion, or social class. True neighbourliness transcends these boundaries.
Universal Call to Love
The parable concludes with Jesus asking the lawyer which of the three was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of robbers. The lawyer answers, "The one who had mercy on him." Jesus then tells him, "Go and do likewise." This directive emphasizes that the call to love one's neighbour is universal and active. It calls to go beyond passive beliefs and engage in concrete acts of kindness and mercy.
Modern-Day Application
The story of the Good Samaritan remains highly relevant today. It calls us to recognize the humanity in everyone, regardless of differences. It challenges us to act compassionately and help those in need, even when inconvenient or costly. In a world often divided by prejudice and indifference, the parable of the Good Samaritan serves as a timeless reminder of the power of love and compassion.
Whether through volunteering, supporting charitable causes, or simply being there for a friend in need, we can all strive to be like the Good Samaritan daily. By doing so, we help others and contribute to a more compassionate and just world.