¶ There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:
{G1161} There was {G2258} a certain {G5100} rich {G4145} man {G444}, which {G2532} was clothed {G1737} in purple {G4209} and {G2532} fine linen {G1040}, and fared {G2165} sumptuously {G2988} every {G2596} day {G2250}:
“Once there was a rich man who used to dress in the most expensive clothing and spent his days in magnificent luxury.
Now there was a rich man dressed in purple and fine linen, who lived each day in joyous splendor.
Now there was a certain rich man, and he was clothed in purple and fine linen, faring sumptuously every day:
-
Ezekiel 16:49
Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. -
Amos 6:4
That lie upon beds of ivory, and stretch themselves upon their couches, and eat the lambs out of the flock, and the calves out of the midst of the stall; -
Amos 6:6
That drink wine in bowls, and anoint themselves with the chief ointments: but they are not grieved for the affliction of Joseph. -
Luke 18:24
And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! -
Luke 18:25
For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. -
Ezekiel 27:7
Fine linen with broidered work from Egypt was that which thou spreadest forth to be thy sail; blue and purple from the isles of Elishah was that which covered thee. -
James 5:1
¶ Go to now, [ye] rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon [you].
Luke 16:19 introduces one of Jesus’ most vivid and sobering parables, often known as the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus. This verse sets the stage by describing the extravagant lifestyle of a man whose identity remains unnamed, highlighting his immense material wealth and daily indulgence.
Historical and Cultural Context
In ancient Israel and the broader Roman world, clothing and diet were powerful indicators of social status. The mention of being "clothed in purple and fine linen" immediately signals extreme wealth and privilege. Purple dye was exceedingly rare and expensive, often reserved for royalty, high officials, or the exceptionally rich, symbolizing their elite standing. Fine linen, a luxurious fabric, further emphasized this opulence. To "fare sumptuously every day" means to eat and live in lavish comfort, enjoying elaborate meals daily. This detailed description of the rich man's lifestyle is crucial for understanding the parable's contrast, especially as it follows Jesus' teachings on stewardship and the dangers of serving money (Luke 16:13).
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The phrase "fared sumptuously" translates the Greek verb euphrainomai (εὐφραινόμενος), which means "to be joyful," "to make merry," or "to feast continually." While joy itself is not inherently negative, in this context, it underscores a life dedicated to continuous self-gratification and luxury, without apparent regard for others. The phrase "every day" emphasizes the consistent, unwavering nature of his extravagant existence, suggesting a life entirely focused on present enjoyment.
Practical Application
Luke 16:19 challenges readers to consider their relationship with wealth and material possessions. It highlights that outward prosperity does not guarantee spiritual well-being or eternal security. This verse sets the stage for a powerful message about compassion, the responsibility that comes with abundance, and the importance of preparing for what lies beyond this life. It encourages believers to reflect on their own priorities and whether their focus is solely on earthly comforts, reminding us of other biblical warnings against the deceitfulness of riches, such as those found in Matthew 6:19-21.