New Testament
Luke 15:22
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the father joyfully welcomes back his wayward son after he has squandered his inheritance.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
But the father turned to his servants and said, 'Quick! Bring out the finest robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet.
But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the father joyfully welcomes back his wayward son after he has squandered his inheritance. The father's command to his servants to bring the finest robe, a ring, and sandals signifies his acceptance and restoration of the son’s status in the family. The robe represents honor and dignity, the ring symbolizes authority and belonging, and the sandals indicate that the son is no longer a servant but a beloved child. This act of generosity highlights the father's love and forgiveness, emphasizing that no matter how far one strays, there is always a path back to grace and acceptance. The father's actions reflect the theme of redemption and the joy of reconciliation, illustrating the depth of parental love and the importance of forgiveness in relationships.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 15:22 to your life
This verse encourages us to embrace forgiveness and reconciliation in our own lives. Just as the father welcomed his son back with open arms, we should be ready to forgive those who have wronged us and restore relationships. It reminds us of the importance of love and acceptance in our families and communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 15:22 mean?
Luke 15:22 describes the father's joyful response to his son's return after a period of waywardness. The father's instructions to bring a robe, a ring, and sandals symbolize acceptance, honor, and restoration of the son's place in the family.
What is the significance of the robe in Luke 15:22?
The robe in Luke 15:22 represents honor and dignity, signifying that the son is welcomed back into the family with respect and love. It illustrates the father's desire to restore his son's status after his return.
What does the ring symbolize in Luke 15:22?
In Luke 15:22, the ring symbolizes authority and belonging within the family. It signifies that the son is not just forgiven but also reinstated to his rightful place as a member of the family.
Why did the father give sandals in Luke 15:22?
The sandals in Luke 15:22 indicate that the son is no longer a servant but a beloved child. This act emphasizes his full restoration to the family and his new status after returning home.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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