Lazarus's Soul Carried to Abraham

These images complete the story of the poor beggar Lazarus and the rich man Dives, begun on the previous page. Underneath the text, Dives suffers torment in Hades after his death as the consequence of his uncharitable lifestyle. Horrifying demons approach to sink their teeth and claws into him as he lifts up his eyes and sees the soul of Lazarus tenderly greeted in heaven above. Dives cries out and asks for mercy in the words recorded in red on a white scroll. The reply, written in gold on a blue scroll reads: Son, remember that during your life you received good things, and likewise Lazarus bad things. Now, however, he is being comforted and you are in agony (Luke 16:25). By transposing the positions of Lazarus and Dives on the facing pages, the Master of James IV of Scotland graphically depicted the changes in fortune referred to on the scroll. On the previous page, Dives occupies the center of the composition, enjoying his life on earth with the pitiful body of Lazarus below. On this page, Lazarus has the central place, being welcomed into heaven while Dives suffers for eternity below.