Luke 15:16

The Parable of the Prodigal Son · Luke 15:11–32
Read Luke 15

Translations

Modern
He longed to fill his belly with the pods the pigs were eating, but no one would give him a thing.
Traditional
And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
Literal
And he was desiring to fill his belly from the pods that the pigs were eating, and no one was giving to him.
Latin
Et cupiebat implere ventrem suum de siliquis, quas porci manducabant: et nemo illi dabat.

Original

Greek
English
He longed to fill his belly with the pods the pigs were eating, but no one would give him a thing.

Notes

Like the previous two parables (15:3–7, 8–10), the parable of the lost son demonstrates God’s love for the lost and the joy God experiences when they return. It also reflects the ministry of Jesus. The father represents God, the younger son represents the tax collectors and sinners Jesus welcomed, and the older son represents the religious leaders.

Chapter 15 contains three related parables of things lost and found:

The loss of something loved causes deep sorrow, whereas finding it brings great joy. There is great rejoicing in heaven when lost sinners return to their heavenly Father.

Theme notes and profiles

God’s Covenant Love

Events

Parallels

Deuteronomy 21:18–21

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Carob Tree Covet, Covetousness Food and Food Preparation Gospel Jesus Christ Judaism Love Luke, Gospel of Pig Sin

Topics

Afflictions and Adversities: Benefits of, Illustrated Afflictions Made Beneficial in Convincing Us of Sin Employee: Oppressions of God: Love of, Exemplified Husk: Eaten by the Prodigal Son Jesus, the Christ: Enunciates the Parables of the Lost Sheep, of the Lost Piece of Silver, of the Prodigal Son Jesus, the Christ: Parable of The Prodigal Son and his Older Brother Joy in Heaven Parables: Parables of Christ: Prodigal Son Penitent: Promises To Prodigal Son: General Scriptures Concerning Select Readings: The Parable of the Prodigal Son Servant: Hired: The Rebellious Son Swine: Fed Upon Husks Swine: Feeding of Young Men: General Scriptures Concerning