The spelling of "good samaritans" includes the use of two capital letters, "G" and "S," to represent the title of the biblical story surrounding a kind stranger who helped a robbed man. The pronunciation of this phrase is /ɡʊd sæmərɪtənz/. The "oo" sound in "good" is represented by the IPA symbol /ʊ/, while the stress is on the first syllable. The "a" sound in "samaritans" is represented by the IPA symbol /ə/ and is unstressed.
Good Samaritans refers to individuals who display acts of kindness or assistance towards strangers, especially in situations requiring immediate aid or attention. The term is derived from the biblical parable of the Good Samaritan, in which an unknown person selflessly helps an injured stranger. In contemporary usage, it signifies one who performs an act of charity or benevolence with no expectation of reciprocation or personal gain.
A Good Samaritan typically intervenes or provides assistance when they encounter a person in distress, such as an accident victim, an individual in medical need, someone involved in criminal activity, or any other situation that warrants immediate help. They exhibit empathy and compassion, offering aid without discriminating against the person's background, beliefs, or circumstances. Good Samaritans often go beyond the call of duty, offering not only physical assistance, but also emotional support and comfort.
The term "Good Samaritans" has expanded to include those involved in various forms of voluntary work and community service. It encompasses individuals who engage in acts of philanthropy, volunteerism, or social activism to address societal issues or promote positive change. These individuals aim to make a difference in the lives of others and contribute to the betterment of their communities.
Overall, Good Samaritans represent an embodiment of altruism, demonstrating the fundamental human qualities of kindness, compassion, and a willingness to help those in need.
The term "Good Samaritans" originated from a parable in the Bible, specifically in the New Testament of the Christian Bible, in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 10, verses 25-37. In this parable, Jesus tells the story of a traveler who was robbed, beaten, and left half-dead on the side of the road. Both a priest and a Levite, who were religious figures, pass by without helping the wounded man. However, a Samaritan, who was a member of a despised religious and ethnic group, stops and goes above and beyond to assist the injured man, caring for his wounds and ensuring his safe recovery.
The term "Good Samaritan" has been widely used since then to refer to a compassionate and helpful person who selflessly assists those in need, regardless of differences in background or circumstances. The term has become synonymous with acts of kindness and charity towards strangers.