A Word On Parables


A perhaps liberating take on Jesus's parables.

"A parabolic reading insists that the importance of these stories lies in their meanings. An empty tomb without meaning ascribed to it is simply an odd, even if exceptional, event. Only when the meaning is ascribed does it take on significance. This is the function of parable and parabolic language. Parable can be based on an actual event (there could have been a Samaritan who did what the character in Jesus's parable is reported to have done), but it need not be. Indeed, it may be that the most important truths can be expressed only in parable.

"In any case, asking about the parabolic meaning of biblical stories, including the Easter stories, is always the most important question. The alternative of fixating on whether they report literally factual happenings leads one astray."

Marcus Borg, Jesus: Uncovering the Life, Teachings, and Relevance of a Religious Revolutionary.

Comments: (1)

  • Interrogate god. In your mind's eye, seat him on t...
    Interrogate god. In your mind's eye, seat him on the witness stand and grill him. If a man can talk you into a relationship with christ, another can talk you out of it. Ask god, "where the hell are you?" or "where the hell were you when...?" If god is god, couldn't he answer your questions head-on? He is not far off. He is not so complex that he can't be known and appreciated and loved. He is a being, a real, true living thinking feeling spirit and he communicates. The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. 2 Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge.
    Posted on April 23, 2009 at 12:52 pm by Anonymous

Add a Comment

Display with comment:
Won't show with comment:
Required:
Captcha:
What is the day of the week?
*Comment must be approved and then will show on page.
© Norm Pattis is represented by Elite Lawyer Management, managing agents for Exceptional American Lawyers
Media & Speaker booking [hidden email]