Luke 16:29 Meaning and Explanation
“Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Abraham replies that the brothers have Moses and the prophets, and should hear them.
What Does Luke 16:29 Mean?
Abraham's answer is short because the case is simple: the brothers lack nothing they need. Moses and the prophets — the Scriptures read aloud every Sabbath — already command exactly what the rich man failed to do: open the hand wide to the poor brother at the gate (Deuteronomy 15:7-11; Isaiah 58:6-7).
The reply relocates the problem from evidence to willingness. No new spectacle is required to obey what is already written; the word of God, truly heard, has power to convert the soul (Psalm 19:7). And there is a deeper irony the reader is meant to catch: the One telling this parable is Himself the goal to which Moses and all the prophets point (Luke 24:27). To hear them honestly is to be led to Him.
Frequently Asked Questions About Luke 16:29
What does Luke 16:29 mean?
Abraham replies that the brothers have Moses and the prophets, and should hear them.