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Abraham’s Bosom

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The repose of the happy in death (Luke xvi. 22). The figure is taken from the ancient custom of allowing a dear friend to recline at dinner on your bosom. Thus the beloved John reclined on the bosom of Jesus.

There is no leaping from Deliʹlah’s lap into Abraham’s bosom—i.e., those who live and die in notorious sin must not expect to go to heaven at death.—Boston: Crook in the Lot.

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Entry taken from Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, edited by the Rev. E. Cobham Brewer, LL.D. and revised in 1895.