The story of the Good Samaritan has fascinated generations of authors, artists, and especially those dedicated to care work. This biblical text, in which God is not mentioned, is considered by some not to be just a parable. Rather, it is an engaging story about distress and aid, a provocative tale of marginalization and courage.

This book presents the story for all those who are moved by human suffering. In five chapters, Opatrný analyzes the story of the Good Samaritan. He examines interpretations ranging from economic to charitable, pastoral, and diaconal readings of the Bible and highlights the public message of the story|one that is not exclusively Christian or ecclesiastical.