The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is parables.
A parable is a specific type of short story designed to teach a moral, ethical, or spiritual lesson. This literary form is a hallmark of ancient wisdom traditions and religious texts precisely because it makes complex and abstract ideas accessible and memorable. Instead of stating a principle directly, a parable illustrates it through a relatable, earthly narrative involving simple characters and situations. The listener or reader is encouraged to think about the story’s underlying meaning and apply the lesson to their own life.
Famous examples are found in the Christian Bible, where Jesus frequently used parables like the Good Samaritan to teach about compassion or the Prodigal Son to illustrate forgiveness. However, this form is not unique to one tradition. Sufi masters, Zen Buddhists, and ancient Greek philosophers also employed allegorical stories to convey their teachings. The power of a parable lies in its ability to resonate on a deeper level than a simple command or doctrine.
The other options are incorrect for specific reasons. An “excerpt” is just a small section taken from a larger text; it is not a type of story. “Fiction” is a very broad category for any imaginative work, and while parables are a form of fiction, the term “parable” is much more specific and accurate in this context. Finally, a “moral” is the lesson contained within the story, not the story itself. Therefore, “parables” is the precise term for the short, instructive stories found in books of ancient wisdom.
