The keen wit expressed in the parables of Safed, a modern-day sage who dispenses his wisdom on travels around the United States, were favorites when first published in the 1910s.

Originally part of a magazine series, the Safed parables are short, thoughtful and often amusing. Readers in need of a lesson, or wanting to reflect on the various challenges and events of life, reacted with admiration and joy. Spurred by many popular requests, over the years William Eleazar Barton placed hundreds of his best Safed parables in book form. The majority were written during the journeys of Barton and his wife (who herself took the role of Keturah in the parables) - as a result we often see allusions to the beauty of the great outdoors, of nature and animal life.

Although from a different time and characterized by folksy, old-time language, the lessons dispensed by the good-humored Safed carry a timeless quality; the eternal traits, follies and triumphs of humanity are explored.