Luke 16:28 (KJV)

What does Luke 16:28 mean?

Luke 16:28 shows a man in torment asking that someone warn his five brothers so they do not end up in the same place of suffering. The verse highlights his concern for his family and his desire that they avoid the punishment he is experiencing.

In this part of Jesus’ story, the rich man—now suffering after death—speaks to Abraham, asking for someone to go back and warn his brothers. The scene takes place in a parable about the afterlife, where the rich man realizes too late the seriousness of his choices. The verse emphasizes his urgent wish that his brothers receive a clear warning so they do not share his fate.

The Greek behind Luke 16:28

• The word for "testify" is διαμαρτύρηται (diamartyrētai), which means to give a strong warning or witness. Here, it shows the rich man's hope that a clear and serious message could change his brothers’ lives.
• The word for "torment" is βασανός (basanos), often used for severe pain or torture. This underlines the intensity of the suffering the rich man wants his brothers to avoid.
• The phrase "lest they also come" uses μή (mē) with ἔλθωσιν (elthōsin), expressing a strong wish that something bad not happen. The Greek construction stresses the urgency and fear behind the rich man’s request.

Why Luke 16:28 matters

• Luke 16:28 clarifies that the rich man’s concern is not just for himself but also for his family, showing a human side even in his suffering.
• The verse highlights the seriousness of the consequences described in the parable, making the warning feel personal and urgent.
• This request sets up the conversation about whether people will listen to warnings, even if they come from someone who has returned from the dead, which is a key point in the rest of the story.