²⁰ So the son left and went to his father.

“While the son was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt ·sorry [compassion] for his son. So the father ran to him [^Can undignified act for a family patriarch; evidence of his unrestrained love] and hugged and kissed him. ²¹ The son said, ‘Father, I have sinned against ·God [^Lheaven; v. 18] and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’^{[a] 22} But the father said to his ·servants [slaves], ‘Hurry! Bring the ·best clothes [^Lfirst/best robe; ^Ceither the father’s own, or a ceremonial robe for an honored guest] and put them on him. Also, put a ring on his finger [^Cprobably a signet ring indicating sonship and authority; Gen. 41:42] and sandals on his feet [^Cslaves went barefoot].