GOOD SAMARITAN Meaning and
Definition
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A Good Samaritan refers to a person who exhibits selflessness and kindness towards others, particularly in assisting strangers in need, often without expecting any reward or recompense. The term borrows its origins from the biblical parable found in the Gospel of Luke, which tells the story of a traveler who is beaten, robbed, and left half-dead by the wayside. Several individuals, including religious figures, pass by without offering help. However, a passerby, a Samaritan, ultimately stops, attends to the injured traveler's needs, and takes the victim to a safe place where he can recover.
In contemporary usage, the term "Good Samaritan" has transcended its religious connotation and has instead come to represent an act of compassionate and altruistic behavior. A Good Samaritan, irrespective of their faith or background, willingly offers support or aid to those in distress, regardless of whether the situation relates to physical, emotional, or social vulnerability. These individuals demonstrate courage and empathy, often extending their generosity towards strangers who are confronted with adversity, suffering, or dire circumstances.
The phrase has found its way into legal contexts as well, denoting laws enacted in some jurisdictions that protect individuals who provide assistance or emergency aid to those in need from legal liability. These laws encourage "Good Samaritans" to step forward and assist individuals in emergency situations, without fearing any negative legal repercussions for their actions.
Common Misspellings for GOOD SAMARITAN
- food samaritan
- vood samaritan
- bood samaritan
- hood samaritan
- yood samaritan
- tood samaritan
- giod samaritan
- gkod samaritan
- glod samaritan
- gpod samaritan
- g0od samaritan
- g9od samaritan
- goid samaritan
- gokd samaritan
- gold samaritan
- gopd samaritan
- go0d samaritan
- go9d samaritan
- goos samaritan
Etymology of GOOD SAMARITAN
The term "Good Samaritan" originates from a parable found in the Gospel of Luke in the New Testament of the Bible. In this parable, a traveler is assaulted, robbed, and left half-dead on the roadside. Several passersby, including a priest and a Levite, ignore the injured man and do not offer any help. However, a Samaritan, who was traditionally considered an enemy of the Jews, stops to assist the man, takes care of him, and brings him to an inn for further care.
The term "Good Samaritan" has been used to refer to someone who selflessly helps others in need, regardless of any existing animosity or differences.
Idioms with the word GOOD SAMARITAN
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a good Samaritan
The idiom "a good Samaritan" refers to a person who selflessly helps others in need or distress, often in unexpected or difficult circumstances, just like the biblical character in the parable of the Good Samaritan who aided a stranger despite differences or social barriers.
