what bible story does steinbeck reference

There are many references to the Bible in The Grapes of Wrath. I think your choices refer to the most obvious one. In that case I'll go with "Prodigal Son". Tom Joad returns from prison. Once disgraced, he returns to lead his family through their ordeal. Tom becomes a symbol of a simple man trying to do the right thing; he wants to redeem himself in a world that does not play by the rules.

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