Skip to content

On the parable of the Good Samaritan: "I imagine that the…

“On the parable of the Good Samaritan: "I imagine that the first question the priest and Levite asked was: 'If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?' But by the very nature of his concern, the good Samaritan reversed the question: 'If I do not stop to help this man, what will happen to…” quote by Martin Luther King Jr
Download Open image
““On the parable of the Good Samaritan: "I imagine that the first question the priest and Levite asked was: 'If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?' But by the very nature of his concern, the good Samaritan reversed the question: 'If I do not stop to help this man, what will happen to him?””

Martin Luther King Jr

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The Good Samaritan’s story highlights self‑interest versus altruism, urging us to consider the impact of in action.

In simple terms: Think about how helping others affects them, not just yourself.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize others’ wellbeing over personal fear.

Themes

ethics altruism social responsibility

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • volunteering
  • emergency response
  • community support
  • public policy

Key Concepts

moral dilemma human compassion

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would you do if helping risked you?
  • How can societies reduce fear of helping?
A Different Perspective

People may fear personal loss when helping, limiting action.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Martin Luther King Jr

Explore all 219 Martin Luther King Jr quotes

More Good-samaritan quotes

Browse all 7 Good-samaritan quotes