SermonStudio
Why Is Happiness Always Somewhere Else?
Biblical Studies
Rebellion, Remorse, and Return
The Prodigal Son's Painful Journey Home
Commentary
Scholars point out that the request by the younger son seemed inappropriate for a first-century Jewish son, who like most sons at that time, knew the provisions of the mishnaic law (Brad Young, The Parables of Jesus, p. 138). The custom regarding inheritance was well known by Jewish families because inheritance was a critical question constantly being dealt within the Jewish community. Therefore, the son could not declare innocence as a result of ignorance.
Scholars point out that the request by the younger son seemed inappropriate for a first-century Jewish son, who like most sons at that time, knew the provisions of the mishnaic law (Brad Young, The Parables of Jesus, p. 138). The custom regarding inheritance was well known by Jewish families because inheritance was a critical question constantly being dealt within the Jewish community. Therefore, the son could not declare innocence as a result of ignorance.

