# parable

## Definition:

The term “parable” usually refers to a short story or object lesson that is used to explain or teach a moral truth.

* Jesus used parables to teach his disciples. Although he also told parables to the crowds of people, he did not always explain the parable.
* A parable could be used to reveal truth to his disciples while hiding that truth from people like the Pharisees who did not believe in Jesus.
* The prophet Nathan told David a parable to show the king his terrible sin.
* The story of the Good Samaritan is an example of a parable that is a story. Jesus’ comparison of old and new wineskins is an example of a parable that was an object lesson to help the disciples understand Jesus’ teachings.

(See also: [Samaria](../names/samaria.md))

## Bible References:

* [Luke 5:36](rc://en/tn/help/luk/05/36)
* [Luke 6:39](rc://en/tn/help/luk/06/39)
* [Luke 8:4](rc://en/tn/help/luk/08/04)
* [Luke 8:9-10](rc://en/tn/help/luk/08/09)
* [Mark 4:1](rc://en/tn/help/mrk/04/01)
* [Matthew 13:3](rc://en/tn/help/mat/13/03)
* [Matthew 13:10](rc://en/tn/help/mat/13/10)
* [Matthew 13:13](rc://en/tn/help/mat/13/13)

## Word Data:

* Strong’s: H1819, H4912, G38500, G39420
