Augustine’s most famous parable interpretation is his allegorical reading of the parable of the Good Samaritan, one which follows those by Irenaeus, Origen, and Ambrose, who see the Samaritan as symbolizing Christ healing the wounds caused by sin and who detect numerous other allegorical details in the parable.

Samaritan means Guardian, and therefore the Lord Himself is signified by this name. The binding of the wounds is the restraint of sin. Oil is the comfort of good hope; wine the exhortation to work with fervent spirit.

Usually discussions of Augustine's parable interpretations focus on his famous allegorical reading of the Good Samaritan.

In the Parable of the Good Samaritan, there is a deeper meaning that may not necessarily be stressed in modern times. Jesus is telling us by this parable that our duty is to lead others to the truth, that is, the Catholic faith, amid this world which is full of darkness and lies.

From Cyril of Alexandria to Origen, from John Chrysostom to Basil the Great, from Ambrose to Augustine, the Fathers are remarkably consistent in seeing in the parable of the Good Samaritan a summary of the whole of salvation history, and the role that we are called to play as members of the Body of Christ.