Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing.
What does Luke 15:25 mean?
In the latter part of this parable we have the character of the Pharisees, though not of them alone. It sets forth the kindness of the Lord, and the proud manner in which his gracious kindness is often received.
Key themes
Read with
Keep this verse inside Luke 15:23-27 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Luke 15:25
In the field - At work. This eldest son is designed to represent the Pharisees who had found fault with the Saviour. Their conduct is likened to that of this envious and unnatural brother. Music and dancing - Dancing was not uncommon among the Hebrews, and was used on various occasions. Thus Miriam celebrated the deliverance of the children of Israel from Egypt in dances as well as songs, Exodus 15:20 . David danced before the ark, 2 Samuel 6:14 . It was common at Jewish feasts Judges 21:19-21 and in public triumphs Judges 11:34 , and at all seasons of mirth and rejoicings, Psalm 30:11 ; Jeremiah 31:4 , Jeremiah 31:13 .
Key words
- the elder son
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the elder son.
- dancing
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dancing. Now his elder son was in the field,....
- the elder son
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the elder son.
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.
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