World Religions

Jesus told this parable of the Good Samaritan in response to the question, “What must I do to inherit everlasting life?” (Luke 10:25)

A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite1, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan2, as he journeyed, came to where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion, and went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; hen he set him on his own beast and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And the next day he took out two denarii3 and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, “Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.” Which of these three, do you think proved neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers? He said, “The one who showed mercy on him.” And Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.” (Luke 10:30-37)

1. Levites were Jews who performed duties in the Temple.
2. Samaritans were people from Samaria; most Jews looked down on them.
3. A unit of money.

Explain the message of this parable.