What is the book of Tobit about?
The book of Tobit is a book of the Bible found in the Old Testament. It tells the story of Tobit, a righteous Israelite living in exile in Nineveh. Tobit is a pious man who follows the laws of God and is devoted to helping the poor and needy. He is also a faithful husband and father.
One day, Tobit’s son, Tobias, is sent on a journey to collect a debt owed to his father. On the way, he is accompanied by the angel Raphael, who is disguised as a human. During the journey, Tobias is instructed by Raphael on how to protect himself from the demon Asmodeus, who has been tormenting Sarah, the daughter of Tobit’s cousin.
Tobias and Raphael eventually arrive in Media, where they meet Sarah and her family. Tobias and Sarah fall in love and are married. On the wedding night, Tobias is instructed by Raphael to burn the heart and liver of a fish, which drives away the demon Asmodeus.
Tobias and Sarah return to Nineveh, where they are welcomed by Tobit. Tobit is overjoyed to see his son and daughter-in-law and blesses them. He also gives Tobias a large sum of money as a wedding gift.
The book of Tobit is a story of faith, love, and redemption. It is a reminder that God is always with us, even in the darkest of times. It is a reminder that God will always provide for us and that we should never give up hope.
Who are the main characters found in the book of Tobit?
- Tobit: The book’s main character, Tobit, is a righteous Israelite exiled to Nineveh. He is a devout follower of God and is known for his generosity and kindness.
- Sarah: Sarah is Tobit’s daughter-in-law. She is a young woman who has been married seven times, but each of her husbands has died on their wedding night.
- Raphael: Raphael is an angel sent by God to help Tobit and Sarah. He is disguised as a human and helps them overcome their difficulties.
- Tobiah: Tobiah is Tobit’s son. He is a brave and loyal young man who accompanies Raphael on his journey to Media.
- Raguel: Raguel is Sarah’s father. He is a kind and generous man who is determined to find a suitable husband for his daughter.
- Anna: Anna is Tobit’s wife. She is a loving and supportive wife who is devoted to her husband and son.
What are the main locations found in the book of Tobit?
- Nineveh: This is the capital of Assyria and the home of Tobit and his family. It is where Tobit and his family are exiled after the fall of their homeland, Naphtali.
- Ecbatana: This is the capital of Media and the home of Sarah and her family. It is where Tobit and Sarah meet and eventually marry.
- Rages: This is a city in Media where Tobit and Sarah live after their marriage.
- The Tigris River: This is the river that Tobit is fishing in when a bird’s gall blinds him.
- Media: This is the kingdom where Tobit and Sarah live after their marriage.
- Naphtali: This is the homeland of Tobit and his family. It is where they are exiled after the fall of Nineveh.
- Raguel’s House: This is the home of Sarah’s father, Raguel. It is where Tobit and Sarah stay after their marriage.
- The Wilderness: This is the area where Tobit and his family are exiled after the fall of Nineveh. It is also where Tobit and Sarah meet and eventually marry.
- The Land of the Living: This is the place where Tobit and Sarah eventually settle after their exile. It is where they live out the rest of their lives in peace and prosperity.
What lessons should we take away from Tobit?
- Be generous and kind to others. Tobit was known for his generosity and kindness to those in need, and his example should be followed.
- Have faith in God. Tobit’s faith in God was unwavering, even in the face of adversity. He trusted that God would provide for him and his family, and his faith was rewarded.
- Persevere in the face of adversity. Tobit faced many challenges throughout his life, but he never gave up. He kept his faith in God and persevered, and in the end, he was rewarded for his faithfulness.
- Be patient. Tobit had to wait a long time for his prayers to be answered, but he never gave up hope. His patience was rewarded in the end.
- Have courage. Tobit was brave and courageous in the face of danger, and his courage was rewarded. He was able to overcome his fears and do what was right.
What are some notable verses from the book of Tobit?
- Tobit 4:5: “My son, do not neglect the commandments of the Lord, but observe them with your whole heart and soul; for they are not a burden to you.”
- Tobit 12:8: “Bless the Lord because he has been so gracious to you.”
- Tobit 4:19: “Do to no one what you yourself dislike.”
- Tobit 8:6: “For almsgiving delivers from death and keeps you from going into the darkness.”
- Tobit 4:15: “Do what is good, and no evil will come to you.”
Tobit is recognized as Deuterocanonical Scripture by the Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox, and Russian Orthodox Churches.