Abstract

The Pauline letters have been largely excluded from parable scholarship. Recent developments in both fields—parable studies, which increasingly situate parables within the broader context of Graeco-Roman miniature narratives such as fables, and Pauline studies, which have re-envisioned Paul as a storyteller—invite this neglect to be reconsidered. This article seeks to explore whether the category of “parable” can yield new insights for interpreting Pauline rhetoric and theology, using the Epistle to the Romans as a test case. The argument unfolds in four steps. First, relevant key passages in Romans (7:1–6; 9:20–23; 11:17–24; 12:4–8) are identified. Second, Rom 7:1–6, as a sample, is shown to fulfill essential criteria of the parable genre. Third, parallels from Jewish and Graeco-Roman traditions—such as the pottery motif (Rom 9:20–23) and body-fables (Rom 12:4–8)—substantiate the proposed genre classification. Fourth, the rhetorical functions of these miniature narratives are explored: in Romans 7:1–6, the “widow” narrative employs bridal imagery to reframe the debate on the Law, while in Romans 11:17–24, the olive tree parable elucidates the tension between divine election, the “hardening” of Israel, and the nations. The study concludes that recognizing parabolic forms within Paul’s letters opens new pathways for literary and theological engagement, enhancing our understanding of early Christian narrative theology. Recognizing parabolic forms within Paul’s letters, the study argues, opens new perspectives for both literary analysis and Pauline theology and our understanding of early Christian parable discourse.