Olney Hymns · Chapter
The Rich Man and Lazarus explained
This poem contrasts the earthly lives and eternal destinies of a rich man and a beggar named Lazarus.
What happens
This poem contrasts the earthly lives and eternal destinies of a rich man and a beggar named Lazarus. The rich man lives in luxury while Lazarus suffers at his gate. Upon death, Lazarus is carried by angels to Abraham's bosom, while the rich man falls into hell. The rich man pleads for relief but is denied, and Abraham reminds him of the reversal of their fortunes. The poem concludes with a prayer for wisdom to choose the lot of God's people and to despise earthly joys.
Themes in this chapter
The Vanity of Worldly Things
The rich man's wealth and luxury are shown to be fleeting and ultimately worthless, as he ends in torment while the beggar finds bliss.
Hope of Heaven and Eternal Life
The poem contrasts the eternal joy of the believer (Lazarus) with the endless woe of the worldly rich man, highlighting the hope of heaven for the faithful.
Characters to notice
- The Rich Man
A worldly man who lived in luxury and ignored the beggar at his gate; after death, he suffers in hell and pleads for relief.
- Lazarus
A beggar who lay at the rich man's gate, suffering; after death, he is carried by angels to Abraham's bosom and enjoys everlasting bliss.
- Abraham
Referred to as 'Abra'm,' he responds to the rich man's plea, explaining the reversal of fortunes and the justice of God.
- Angels
They carry the beggar's soul to the land of peace and to Abraham's bosom.
Key passages
“Death made a great and lasting change.”
Death brings about a permanent and significant transformation in one's state.
The poem emphasizes that death is the great equalizer and the moment when eternal destinies are sealed.
“The greatest evil we can fear, Is to possess our portion here!”
The worst thing that can happen to us is to receive all our blessings in this life and have nothing in the next.
The poem warns against seeking earthly comforts as the ultimate goal, for that would mean missing out on eternal blessings.