(παραβολή), comparison, from παραβάλλειν, to compare, to collate), denotes in general any discourse expressed in figurative, poetical, or highly ornamented diction. Thus it is said, "Balaam took up his parable" (Num. xxiii. 7); and "Job continued his parable" (Job xxvii. 1). Under this general signification it is used in Scripture to denote—1st. An obscure or enigmatical saying, as in Ps. xlix. 4; lxxviii. 2. 2d. A fictitious narrative, invented for the purpose of conveying truth in a more engaging form than that of direct narration. Of this sort is the parable by which Nathan reproved David (2 Sam. xii. 2, 3), that in Paracelsus, which Jotham exposed the folly of the Shechemites (Judg. ix. 7–15), and that addressed by Jehoiach to Amaziah (2 Kings xiv. 9, 10). To this class also belong the parables of Christ. 3d. A type or emblem, as in Heb. ix. 9, where ἀπὸ τῆς παραβολῆς is rendered in our version figure.

Parables or fables are found in the literature of all nations. They were called by the Greeks αἴκησις, and by the Romans fable. It has been usual to consider the parable as composed of two parts,—viz., the protasis, conveying merely the literal sense; and the apodosis, containing the mystical or figurative sense. It is not necessary, however, that this second part should be always expressed. The excellence of a parable depends on the propriety and force of the comparison on which it is founded, on the general fitness and harmony of its parts, on the obviousness of its main scope or design, on the beauty and conciseness of the style in which it is expressed, and on its adaptation to the circumstances and capacities of the hearers. The parables of the Old Testament are admirable specimens of this species of composition. Witness those of Jotham (Judge. ix. 7–15), of Nathan (2 Sam. xii. 1–14), of Isaiah (v. 1–5), and of Ezekiel (xix. 1–9). But the parables of our Saviour claim pre-eminence over all others, on account of their variety, appositeness, and beauty.

(See Gray, Delineation of the Parables, 1777; Bulkley, Discourses on the Parables, 1771; Collyer, Discourses on the Parables, 1815; Kromm, Homilien über die Parabel Jesu, 1823; Unger, De Parabolis Jesu, 1828; Bailey, Exposition of the Parables, 1829; Schultze, De Parabolis Jesu Christi, 1827; Lisco, Die Parabeln Jesu, 1832; and Trench, Notes on the Parables of Our Lord, 7th ed. 1857.)