as a translation of the hebrew word מָשָׁל "mashal" the word parable can also refer to a riddle. in all times in their history the jews were familiar with teaching by means of parables and a number of parables also exist in the old testament. the use of parables by jesus was hence a natural teaching method that fit into the tradition of his time. the parables of jesus have been quoted, taught, and discussed since the very beginnings of christianity.