The Prodigal Son Leaves

The prodigal son rides away on horseback with companions and travel goods, lifting his hand in farewell while his father stands at the edge of the family estate and watches him go. The open road, distant hills, and departing horses frame the beginning of Christ’s parable in Luke 15, where the younger son demands his share of the inheritance and leaves for a far country. The father’s still posture contrasts with the son’s restless movement, emphasizing both human self-will and the patient mercy that will later welcome the repentant child home. This artwork serves well for teaching on repentance, squandered inheritance, free will, parental love, and the grace of God revealed through Jesus’ parable of the lost son.