In the biblical context, a riddle is a form of enigmatic or puzzling statement that requires thought and discernment to understand. Riddles are often used to convey deeper truths or to challenge the listener's wisdom and insight. One of the most famous riddles in the Bible is found in the account of Samson in the Book of Judges. During his wedding feast, Samson poses a riddle to his Philistine guests: "Out of the eater came something to eat, and out of the strong came something sweet" (Judges 14:14). This riddle refers to an earlier event where Samson killed a lion and later found bees and honey in its carcass. The riddle serves as a narrative device to illustrate themes of strength, cunning, and the consequences of betrayal.

Riddles in the Bible are not merely for entertainment; they often carry spiritual or moral lessons. They require the listener to engage with the text on a deeper level, seeking wisdom and understanding. In Proverbs, riddles are associated with the pursuit of wisdom: "To understand a proverb and a parable, the words of the wise and their riddles" (Proverbs 1:6). This suggests that riddles are a tool for teaching and reflection, encouraging believers to seek divine insight.

Parable

A parable is a simple account used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson, often told by Jesus in the New Testament. Parables are a distinctive feature of Jesus' teaching method, designed to convey profound truths in a relatable and memorable way. They often use everyday situations and characters to reveal deeper spiritual realities, challenging listeners to reflect on their own lives and beliefs.

One of the most well-known parables is the Parable of the Sower, found in the Synoptic Gospels. In this parable, Jesus describes a sower who scatters seed on different types of soil, each representing different responses to the Word of God. The seed that falls on good soil represents those who hear the word, understand it, and produce a fruitful harvest (Matthew 13:23). This parable emphasizes the importance of receptivity to God's message and the transformative power of the Gospel.

Parables often contain an element of surprise or reversal, challenging conventional wisdom and inviting listeners to see the world from a divine perspective. For example, the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) subverts social and religious expectations by portraying a Samaritan, traditionally viewed as an outsider, as the true neighbor who shows compassion.

Jesus' use of parables also served to reveal truths to those who were open to receiving them while concealing them from those who were hardened in unbelief. As He explained to His disciples, "The knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them" (Matthew 13:11). This dual function of parables underscores the importance of spiritual discernment and the readiness of the heart to receive divine truth.