The term "prodigal son" is spelled /ˈprɒdɪɡəl sʌn/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable, pronounced as "proh", has a short "o" sound (/ɒ/). The second syllable, "di", is pronounced with a short "i" (/ɪ/) sound, and the third syllable, "gal", has a long "a" (/eɪ/) sound followed by a soft "g" (/dʒ/). The final syllable, "son", is pronounced with a short "u" (/ʌ/) sound. This term refers to the biblical parable of a wayward son who returns home after squandering his inheritance.
The term "prodigal son" refers to a biblical parable found in the New Testament of the Christian Bible, specifically in the Gospel of Luke. It is a story that illustrates the concept of redemption and forgiveness. In the parable, a father has two sons, and the younger of the two demands his share of the family inheritance. The father grants his request, and the younger son sets off on a dissolute and lavish lifestyle, squandering his wealth through extravagant and reckless behavior.
After the younger son realizes the error of his ways and becomes destitute, he decides to return home and ask for forgiveness from his father, hoping to be treated as a servant. However, upon seeing his wayward child, the father is overcome with joy, embraces him, and celebrates his return by organizing a feast in his honor. This story serves as a metaphor for the unwavering love and boundless forgiveness of God, highlighting the notion that no matter how far one strays or how deep one's transgressions, they can always find forgiveness and redemption when they repent.
Beyond its biblical origins, the term "prodigal son" has taken on a more general meaning in modern language. It typically refers to someone who has squandered their resources or talents through excess, recklessness, or foolish behavior and subsequently seeks forgiveness or a chance at redemption. It is often used to describe individuals who have experienced a reversal of fortunes and are now seeking to make amends or reconnect with their past, acknowledging the errors of their previous ways.
The term "prodigal son" originates from the biblical parable found in the New Testament of the Christian Bible, specifically in the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 15, Verses 11-32. In this parable, Jesus tells the story of a younger son who asks his father for his inheritance, then goes away and squanders it on reckless living. When the son realizes his mistake, he returns home, and the father joyfully welcomes him back, symbolizing God's unconditional love and forgiveness.
The term "prodigal son" comes from the Latin translation of this parable, named "filium prodigum" or "filium prodigum hunc", meaning "a wasteful or extravagant son". The word "prodigal" itself derives from the Latin word "prodigus", which means "lavish" or "extravagant".