14 A parable is a fairly short narrative that has symbolic meaning. The Greek word παροιμίαν (paroimian) is used again in 16:25, 29. This term does not occur in the synoptic gospels, where παραβολή (parabolē) is used. Nevertheless it is similar, denoting a short narrative with figurative or symbolic meaning.
15 Grk “these.”
16 Or “comprehend.”

In other versions

This figure of speech Jesus used with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them.

Jesus used this figure of speech, but the Pharisees did not understand what he was telling them.

Jesus gave them this figure of speech, but they did not understand what he was telling them.

Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what he meant,

Jesus told them this parable, but they did not understand what it was that he was saying to them.

This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them.

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