Poet and Peasant and Through Peasant Eyes: A Literary-Cultural Approach to the Parables in Luke

Top Highlights

“In summary, clearly the most probable cultural setting for the parable is that of a landed estate with a manager who had authority to carry out the business of the estate. The debtors were most likely renters, hakirīn, who had agreed to pay a fixed amount of produce for the yearly rent. The steward was no doubt making extras ‘under the table,’ but these amounts were not reflected in the signed bills. He was a salaried official who, in addition, was paid a specific fee by the renter for each contract. The master was a man of noble character respected in the community who cared enough about his own wealth to fire a wasteful manager.” (Volume 1, Page 94)

“At the same time, the steward discovers at this point something else about his master that is supremely significant. He is fired but not jailed. The Mishna makes quite clear that an agent was expected to pay for any loss of goods for which he was responsible. The steward can be tried and jailed. Rather, he is not even scolded. The master, under the circumstances, has been unusually merciful toward him.⁴⁶ Thus, in one scene, this servant has experienced two aspects of his master’s nature. He is a master who expects obedience and acts in judgment on the disobedient servant. He is also a master who shows unusual mercy and generosity even to a dishonest steward. The thoughtful listener/reader of the parable would not miss either of these facts.” (Volume 1, Page 98)

“The prodigal is shown as wishing for his father’s death in his request for his portion. The father demonstrates almost unbelievable love by granting the request. The older son’s silence indicates a rejection of his responsibility to reconcile his brother to his father.” (Volume 1, Page 161)