The Rich Man is a symbol of materialism. His desires are for creature comforts, objects of desire, property, fame and glory. He judges success of himself and others by how much money and property they have. He may have a desire to develop spiritually, but is unable to do so because of his attachment to everything material. The wealthy man can also symbolize one who is proud and arrogant. One who places himself above others.
    The poor man isn't necessarily one who has never had anything material, but is symbolic of one who has placed his spiritual development above the pursuit of wealth and material goods. He doesn't care that he has little of a material nature and doesn't envy those who do. The poor man is also humble and thinks of helping others before himself. Gandhi and St. Francis of Assisi are good examples of this type of poor man. They are not truly poor because they are wealthy in what truly matters: their eternal spirit and soul.