The prodigal son is a well-known parable from the Bible, specifically from the New Testament in the book of Luke, chapter 15, verses 11-32. The story is about a younger son who asks his father for his share of the inheritance and then goes on to squander it in a distant country on a life of excess and indulgence. Eventually, a famine arises in the land, and the son finds himself in dire circumstances, working as a swineherd and longing to eat the pods he fed to the pigs. He decides to return to his father, confessing his wrongdoing and hoping to be accepted back as a servant.
However, when the son is still far off, his father sees him and runs to embrace him, welcoming him back with open arms. The father even throws a feast to celebrate his return, much to the dismay of the older son, who had remained faithful and obedient throughout.
The parable of the prodigal son is often interpreted as a lesson on forgiveness, repentance, and the unconditional love of a father. It illustrates the idea that no matter how far one strays or how deep one’s mistakes, there is always a chance for redemption and acceptance.