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Abraham’s bosom

Now the poor man died and was carried away by the angels to Abraham’s bosom; and the rich man also died and was buried. In Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and saw Abraham far away and Lazarus in his bosom. —Luke 16:22-23 NASB

This use of the word “bosom” refers to the custom of reclining on couches at table, which was prevalent among the Jews, an arrangement which brought the head of one person almost into the bosom of the one who sat or reclined above him.

To “be in Abraham's bosom” thus meant to enjoy happiness and rest (Matthew 8:11; Luke 16:23) at the banquet in Paradise.

More information

• banquet
• meals
• couch
• Who is Abraham?
• Parables in the Bible