Urgent and intelligent action: study of the parable of the astute administrator in Lk 16,1-8

Abstract

The article deals with the Parable of the astute administrator, recorded in Lk 16:1-8 and its theological and hermeneutical developments, aiming at christian action. The interpretation of this parable is marked by exegetical and theological discussions, due to the discussions regarding the delimitation of the parable, the relationship with the sayings of vv. 9-13, and the theological complication of Jesus telling a story highlighting a dishonest action. In order to contribute to the discussion, the article develops from the analysis of the literary context, delimitation, form, structure and environment, to then approach its contents considering the narrative dynamics proper to the parable. It concludes with a look at theology and hermeneutic updating. To this end it takes up the context and eschatological language of the parable and proposes that, in times marked by death, illness, neglect of the earth, biblical characteristics and theologically called the "present era", urgent and intelligent action by Christians. As a basis for the discussions, authors with important contributions to the understanding of the parable are revisited.