Lazarus And The Rich Man

Wednesday, October 7, 2009, 15:52

Lazarus was a poor man in a pitiable condition, covered with sores. Such was his condition that even the dogs licked the sores of this poor man. There was also a rich man who lived in great luxury, clothed in the finest of attires. Lazarus was laid by the gates of this wealthy man hoping to partake of the bits of food fallen from the table of the rich man.

When Lazarus died, the angels fetched him to the side of Abraham. When the rich man died, he was buried in hell where he naturally underwent tormenting pain and suffering. The rich man from hell looked up and saw Lazarus seated by the side of Abraham. He thus cried out, "'Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire." Abraham pointed out to the rich man that during his life time he had all the good things that life could offer, while Lazarus suffered in misery. Hence he was now enjoying here while the rich man was experiencing misery. Abraham also told that besides this, there was also a great pit in between which separated them, and that it is impossible for one on either sides to cross over to the other.

The rich man then appealed to Abraham thus, "Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father's house, for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.' Abraham replied that the rich man's brothers had Mosses and other prophets to warn them. They were to listen to them. However the rich man argued, that it was not enough if Mosses or the other prophets had to deliver the truth. It would be more authentic if someone could rise from their death and inform them about this place of pain which would make them repent. Abraham then replied, 'If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead'

Thus the desire to repent will have to arise strongly from within. Until then even if someone rises from their death and educate, it would do no good. Also its one's prime duty to help one's deprived fellowmen without judgement.