What does Luke 16:21 mean?

Explanation

Luke 16:21 describes a scene from the parable of the rich man (often referred to as Dives) and Lazarus.

In this verse, Lazarus, a very poor man covered in sores, is depicted as longing for the scraps from the rich man's table.

The dogs would also come and lick his sores, indicating his low social status and the direness of his condition.

The literal meaning paints a picture of extreme poverty and suffering juxtaposed against the backdrop of the rich man's lavish lifestyle.

The deeper meaning suggests the callousness of the rich toward the poor and the failure to recognize and respond to human need that is literally at one's doorstep.

It also reflects the reversal of fortunes that can occur in the afterlife; those who are comfortable in this life may not be so in the next, while those who suffer may find comfort.

Historical Context

The parable of the rich man and Lazarus is found in Luke 16:19-31.

Jesus shared this story with His audience, which consisted of both His disciples and the Pharisees.

At the time, the Pharisees were known for their love of wealth and status, which is likely why Jesus used this parable to challenge their values.

During this historical period, a great chasm existed between the rich and the poor.

Wealth was often seen as a sign of God’s favor, while poverty could be interpreted as a curse or punishment.

The mention of dogs licking Lazarus's sores would have been particularly striking to the original audience because dogs were considered unclean animals.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse serves multiple functions:

A critique of wealth: The verse implicitly critiques the selfishness of the wealthy who ignore the needy.

A teaching on the afterlife: It sets the stage for the later parts of the parable, where there is a reversal of fortunes after death, suggesting that earthly wealth and comfort do not equate to righteousness or favor in the afterlife.

1. Compassion and ethics: The verse can be seen as an exhortation to act compassionately and ethically towards those less fortunate.

Different theological traditions might emphasize various aspects. For example, liberation theology might focus on the social justice elements, while prosperity gospel advocates might interpret it in ways that emphasize spiritual, rather than material, riches.

Practical Applications

Today, this verse can prompt individuals to consider their responsibility to the poor and marginalized in society.

It invites reflection on the nature of wealth and encourages believers to exhibit kindness, generosity, and proactive care for others.

Actions such as donating to food banks, volunteering time to help disadvantaged individuals, and advocating for social policies that protect the poor might be seen as modern responses to the message in this verse.

Cross-References

• Matthew 26:11 - "For ye have the poor always with you, but me ye have not always."
• James 2:15-16 - "If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?"

Language Study

Key words from the original Greek in this verse include:

• "επιθυμούντας" (epithymountas) meaning "desiring" which indicates a longing or craving.
• "χορτασθῆναι" (chortasthenai) meaning "to be fed" refers to being satisfied with food.
• "ψιχίων" (psichion) translating to "crumbs" signifies small pieces of food.
• "ὑποκρουόμενα" (hypokrouomena) meaning "which fell" indicates something that happens by chance or casually.

These nuances in the original language underscore the desperation of Lazarus's situation and the morsels of food he desires.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient cultures, narratives of rich and poor individuals, where the poor often faced dire circumstances while rich individuals experienced luxury, were to exemplify morality and social responsibility.

Furthermore, similar motifs are found in other religious traditions, where the poor are depicted as possessing virtues that the wealthy lack and thus gain favor in the afterlife.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, modern research into social inequalities and their effects on health could reflect this verse's portrayal of poverty. For instance, studies showing how economic disparities contribute to disparities in health outcomes echo the physical state of Lazarus.

Commentaries

Commentaries on this verse vary, but many agree on its fundamental themes of wealth, poverty, and social justice.

Some commentaries focus on the stark contrast between Lazarus and the rich man's lifestyle, while others examine the implications for afterlife theology.

Still, others consider the parable's call to ethical living and care for the less fortunate as a central message.

Notably, scholars often point to the verse's role in heightening the drama of the parable, leading to its climactic eschatological revelation.