Part II, Chapters 7–8: "The Parable of the Prodigal Son"

The Parable of the Prodigal Son

The Parable of the Prodigal Son

And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.

And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.

And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.

And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!

But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard music and dancing.

And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.

And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends...