Allegory in Biblical Parable and Prophecy

Abstract

The parables of Jesus form ‘limited allegories’, as defined by most literary critics. The claim that they teach only one point apiece is a drastic overreaction from the equally implausible claim that all the contextual material suggesting otherwise was added in the early years of parables’ transmission. Inferring a main point from each major character or group of characters offers a good via media, one that is supported by both rabbinic parables and the figural narratives of the Hebrew Scriptures. Parables disclose performative as well as propositional utterances. Surprises push the boundaries of realism and reveal a symbolic level of meaning. They confront the listener with the challenge to take sides, for or against Jesus of Nazareth.