Scripture · Luke 15:13
Luke 10:33-34
The Good Samaritan
But a Samaritan on a journey came upon him, and when he saw him, he had compassion. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him.
A bearded traveler supports a wounded man’s raised forearm beneath a gnarled tree, with a saddled animal nearby.
About the artwork
The younger man reclines on red-orange cloth, wounds visible on his body. The older traveler uses both hands to support his arm. Moreau concentrates on contact and care rather than on the earlier assault or the figures who passed by. The nearby animal connects the intimate group with the journey that must continue.
The injured man’s pale body stretches across the bottom of the panel, while the Samaritan bends into the space above him. His elaborate clothing and the loaded saddle remain visible, but both hands are occupied with the stranger. Moreau lets the possessions surround an action they now have to serve. The red cloth draws attention to the ground-level place where the journey has stopped and care has begun.
Featured in: Gustave Moreau’s Bible Paintings: The Homebody Who Painted Salome
What does Luke 10:33-34 mean?
Luke 10:33–34 contrasts the Samaritan’s compassion with the earlier passersby. Seeing the injured man leads to approach, bandaging, treatment, transport, and care. The next verse adds payment and a promise to return, extending mercy beyond the first emotional response.
Jesus tells the story in answer to a question about who counts as a neighbor. At its conclusion, He asks which traveler acted as a neighbor and directs His listener to do likewise. Moreau’s supporting hands make that active relationship visible: the focus is on what one person does for another in need.
The supporting hands give bodily form to the compassion and practical care described in Luke 10:33–34.
Sources
Musée d’Orsay, Paris (RF MO P 2017 5); oil on wood, 23.8 × 32.2 cm. Exact c. 1865 panel, acquired in 2017. Other oil and watercolor versions are distinct; this image does not visibly show oil or wine being poured.
Gustave Moreau’s Bible Paintings: The Homebody Who Painted Salome. Artwork reading adapted from this guide.
Luke 10 — Berean Standard Bible. Context for Luke 10:33-34.
Also from Luke:The Angel Appearing to ZachariasAnnunciation
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