Luke 16:25 (KJV)

What does Luke 16:25 mean?

Luke 16:25 shows Abraham telling the rich man to remember how, during his life, he enjoyed good things while Lazarus suffered, but now their situations are reversed: Lazarus is comforted and the rich man is in torment. The verse highlights a dramatic reversal of fortunes after death, based on how each lived.

In this scene, Jesus is telling a story where Abraham speaks to a rich man who is suffering after death, while Lazarus, a poor man, is now comforted. Abraham calls the man "Son," reminding him of his past comforts and Lazarus’s hardships, and explains that their current states are a result of their earthly lives. The verse emphasizes the contrast between earthly comfort and eternal consequences.

The Greek behind Luke 16:25

• "θυγάτηρ" (teknon, G5043): This word means "child" or "son," and Abraham uses it to address the rich man in a personal, even gentle, way, despite the man's suffering. It shows a tone of compassion rather than anger.
• "μνημόνευε" (mnēmoneuō, G3415): This word means "remember." Abraham urges the rich man to recall his past life, making the point that his current suffering is connected to how he lived before.
• "παρεκάλεσται" (parakaleō, G3870): This word is translated as "is comforted." It carries the sense of being encouraged or consoled, showing that Lazarus is now experiencing relief and kindness in contrast to his previous suffering.
• "ὀδυνᾶσαι" (odynaō, G3600): This word means "you are tormented." It expresses deep pain or anguish, emphasizing the rich man's current state.

Why Luke 16:25 matters

• Luke 16:25 clarifies that the reversal of fortunes is not random but is directly tied to the lives each person led, challenging the idea that wealth or suffering in life automatically reflects God’s favor or disfavor.
• The verse highlights the personal nature of the conversation, with Abraham addressing the rich man as "son," which adds a layer of sorrow and seriousness to the message.
• This verse connects to the larger theme in Luke’s Gospel about the dangers of ignoring the needs of others and trusting in wealth, making the story a warning about the consequences of such choices.