Rich Man / Lazarus

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1. Name / Role

Rich Man / Lazarus

2. Category

Parables / Symbolic Figures

3. Time Period / Biblical Context

This parable is found in the New Testament, in Luke 16:19–31, as part of Jesus’ teachings on wealth, justice, and the eternal consequences of one’s life choices. It immediately follows His warnings about serving God versus mammon and was addressed, in part, to Pharisees who “loved money” (Luke 16:14).

4. Origin / Background

The narrative draws from daily contrasts in first-century Jewish society—between the elite and the destitute. “Lazarus” (a Greek form of the Hebrew Eleazar, meaning “God has helped”) is the only character given a name in Jesus’ parables, perhaps emphasising divine recognition despite worldly invisibility. The rich man’s namelessness further contrasts his earthly glory with his eternal loss.

5. Primary Role / Function

The figures function as contrasts in earthly comfort and eternal destiny. The Rich Man represents those who live selfishly and neglect the poor, while Lazarus stands for the downtrodden who, though afflicted in life, are comforted in death. The parable warns of reversal in the afterlife, illustrating the finality of judgement and the sufficiency of Scripture to lead to repentance.

6. Key Characteristics / Traits

  • Rich Man: Wealthy, clothed in luxury, indifferent to Lazarus, tormented in Hades
  • Lazarus: Poor, covered in sores, neglected, carried to Abraham’s side
  • Abraham: Symbol of covenantal promise and eternal comfort
  • Brothers: Represent those still alive, needing to heed God’s Word

7. Symbolism / Spiritual Significance

This parable symbolises eternal justice, divine compassion for the poor, and the urgency of repentance before death. It rebukes reliance on wealth and religious status, revealing that one’s eternal destiny hinges on faithful living and moral responsibility, not earthly status. The chasm between the two figures post-death highlights the irreversibility of eternal outcomes.

8. Notable Figures / Examples

  • The Rich Man (traditionally called Dives) – Represents the unrepentant wealthy who ignore God’s moral call
  • Lazarus – Symbol of righteous suffering and ultimate vindication
  • Abraham – Voice of divine perspective and keeper of covenantal rest
  • Moses and the Prophets – Symbolic of the sufficiency of Scripture for salvation

9. Related Bible References

  • Luke 16:19–31 – The parable text
  • Luke 16:14–15 – Pharisees rebuked for loving money
  • Deuteronomy 15:7–11 – Command to care for the poor
  • Proverbs 14:31 – “Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker”
  • James 5:1–6 – Warning to the rich who exploit others
  • Matthew 25:31–46 – Judgement based on treatment of “the least of these”

10. Summary / Reflection

The parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus is a powerful portrayal of moral accountability, the dignity of the poor, and the finality of divine judgement. It warns against complacency and self-indulgence, urging listeners to live with eternal priorities. Lazarus, once invisible to man, is honoured by God; the rich man, once exalted, is brought low. This reversal calls every reader to evaluate their life in light of Scripture and to respond with compassion, humility, and trust in God’s justice.

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