A parable is a story—usually a short story—that presents a moral lesson at the end. Tolstoy’s “God Sees the Truth, but Waits” is generally interpreted as a parable about forgiveness. The story unfolds in the simple and straightforward style characteristic of parables, using the unjust conviction of Aksenov to teach a lesson on the divine source of all justice and forgiveness. Like many parables, it utilizes symbolism to elucidate its meaning: For instance, the dream of Aksenov’s wife foreshadows what will happen to Aksenov, and Aksenov’s physical transformation reflects the internal, spiritual transformation he undergoes while in Siberia. Tolstoy’s moral lesson becomes clear at the end of the parable. When Aksenov recognizes himself as a sinner and abandons his earthly attachment to his family, he is able to grasp that forgiveness comes from God alone.

Juxtaposition refers to the side-by-side comparison of opposing concepts or entities. Tolstoy’s story explores and reflects the central thematic juxtaposition of human judgment versus divine justice through various other juxtapositions. Thus, the flawed human judicial system bases itself upon appearances, while divine justice operates according to the truth.