But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:
What does Luke 15:22 mean?
Having viewed the prodigal in his abject state of misery, we are next to consider his recovery from it. This begins by his coming to himself.
Key themes
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Keep this verse inside Luke 15:18-22 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Luke 15:22
The joy of the father is expressed by clothing him in the best raiment, that he might appear well. The "robe" here mentioned is probably the outer garment; and the father told them to put on him the best one that was in the house - one reserved for festival occasions. See Genesis 27:15 . A ring on his hand - To wear a ring on the hand was one mark of wealth and dignity. The rich and those in office commonly wore them. Compare James 2:2 . To "give" a ring was a mark of favor, or of affection, or of conferring office. Compare Genesis 41:42 ; Esther 8:2 .
Key words
- the first robe
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the first robe.
- fragrant garments
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fragrant garments.
- the first robe
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the first robe.
- fragrant garments
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fragrant garments.
Context in Luke 15
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Luke 15 belongs to the middle movement of the book, especially the section often described as journey to Jerusalem. Luke emphasizes salvation for the poor and the outsider, prayer, joy, women, table fellowship, the Holy Spirit, and the universal reach of Christ’s mission. Read this chapter with the wider themes of salvation, Spirit, and prayer in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
Related topics
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