Luke 10:33
“But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him.”Read in Context
Modern Meaning
What Does “Good Samaritan” Mean?
A person who selflessly helps a stranger in need.
Biblical Origin
Where Does This Phrase Come From?
Jesus told the parable of a Samaritan — a member of a group despised by Jews — who stopped to help a beaten traveler after a priest and Levite passed by. The story was revolutionary: the hero belonged to the "wrong" group. "Good Samaritan" became English for any selfless helper.
The phrase appears in Luke 10:33 in the King James Version of the Bible, first published in 1611.
Usage Today
How Is It Used Today?
Describes someone who helps others without expectation of reward. Good Samaritan laws protect those who render emergency assistance.
The KJV Verse
Luke 10:33
“But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him.”
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