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Original Research - Special Collection: COVID-19 from a Theological Perspective
An exegesis of the parable of the Good Samaritan (Lk 10:25–35) and its relevance to the challenges caused by COVID-19
Submitted: 08 May 2020 | Published: 12 October 2020
About the author(s)
Philemon M. Chamburuka, Department of Religious Studies, Classics, and Philosophy, Faculty of Arts, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe; and, Department of New Testament and Related Literature, Faculty of Theology and Religion, University of Pretoria, South AfricaIshanesu S. Gusha, Department of Religious Studies, Classics, and Philosophy, Faculty of Arts, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe; and, Department of New Testament and Related Literature, Faculty of Theology and Religion, University of Pretoria, South Africa
Abstract
The article is on the exegesis of the parable of the Good Samaritan (Lk 10:25–35) and its relevance to the challenges that are being posed by COVID-19. Through the historical-critical approach, the article has concluded that the parable is relevant in troubleshooting the challenges that are caused by COVID-19, such as discrimination, stigma, hate and stereotypes. The article sees COVID-19 as teaching humanity the important lesson that no one can live in isolation, however powerful or economically strong they are. Therefore, there is a need to take the opportunity of being a neighbour. Neighbourhood is understood as offering services to those in need and COVID-19 has presented a chance to the entire world to help someone with needs. A need-based world requires neighbours and this makes the parable relevant.
Contribution: This article is a reflection of the challenges that are currently faced by people in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is within the scope of this theological journal that issues of identity, relationships, and theological reflection should be addressed, hence the article fits well within this scope.
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