1 Then Tobit answered and said, “Brother, I know of no family in our tribe, or of any of our ancestors, that ever went and served the gods of the nations, which are made by human hands.
2 And he said to him, “I will go with you.”
3 Then Tobit said to him, “Brother, show me of what tribe and family you are.”
4 So he went out to look for a man to go with him to Media, someone who was acquainted with the way.
5 So he went out to look for a man to go with him to Media, someone who was acquainted with the way.
6 So he went out and found a young man standing among the brothers, and he asked him where he was from.
7 But Tobias said, “I will neither eat nor drink here until you have dealt with what needs to be done.”
8 So he said to him, “Go and bring him.” So he went and called him, and he said, “Young man, my father is calling for you.”
9 Then Tobias went out to look for a man to go with him to Media, someone who was acquainted with the way.
10 Then Tobias said to him, “Wait for me, young man, till I go in and tell my father, for I do need you to travel with me, and I will pay you.”
11 So he went out and found a young man who was one of our relatives, and he brought him to me. And he made a written agreement with him, that he would receive the silver when I die.
12 So he called him and asked, “Are you my son Tobit?” And he answered, “I am.”
13 So Tobias said, “I will go, but tell me, how much will you pay me? I will not take anything except half of what I bring back with me.”
14 Then Tobit said to him, “Wait for me, young man, till I go in and tell my father, for I do need you to travel with me, and I will pay you.”
15 Do not weep, my child.
16 So they went out to the gate of Nineveh to the man who was waiting with his wife and daughter.
17 So Tobias said, “I will go, but tell me, how much will you pay me? I will not take anything unless I get it in advance.”
18 Be of good cheer, my daughter.
19 And Tobias said to him, “Wait for me, young man, till I go in and tell my father, for I do need you to travel with me, and I will pay you.”
20 Then Tobias said to him, “Take me to him, so that I may know who he is and what tribe he belongs to.”
21 So Tobias went out to look for a man to go with him to Media, someone who was acquainted with the way.
22 So Tobias went out to look for a man to go with him to Media, someone who was acquainted with the way.
The True Meaning of Tobit 5
The Book of Tobit is believed to have been written in the 2nd century BC, during a time of great upheaval and persecution for the Jewish people. The author, whose identity remains unknown, crafts a captivating narrative that weaves together themes of faith, family, and the unseen hand of divine providence. Tobit sends his son Tobias on a perilous journey to collect a long-overdue debt, unfolding a crucial moment in his life. Little does Tobit know, this seemingly ordinary task will set in motion a series of events that will test the family’s trust in God and ultimately lead to a miraculous deliverance. Tobit’s unwavering faith and the guidance of the angel Raphael will navigate the challenges that arise as we delve into this chapter. This passage also echoes the importance of obedience and the rewards that come from trusting in the Lord, as seen in the book of Proverbs: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5).
Tobit 5:1-4
Tobit advises his son Tobias to seek a trustworthy travel companion for his journey to Media in Tobit 5:1-4. This interaction between father and son highlights the care and concern Tobit has for Tobias. Tobit instructs his son to find someone who is not only trustworthy but who also shares their faith. This demonstrates Tobit’s belief in the importance of faith and trustworthiness in one’s relationships and companions.
Tobias’ journey to Media is significant as it sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the book of Tobit. It mirrors the journeys of other biblical figures, such as Abraham and the Israelites, who embarked on travels that tested their faith and led them to unexpected encounters and experiences. Tobit shows faith in God’s providence and guidance by sending Tobias to Media, trusting that He will protect his son on the journey.
The importance of having a reliable traveling companion is a timeless message found throughout the Bible. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 states, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.” This verse emphasizes the value of companionship and support, especially in times of need or adversity. Tobit emphasizes the need for a trustworthy companion, underscoring the significance of having someone to share the journey with, both for practical reasons and for emotional support.
Additionally, Tobit’s insistence that Tobias find a fellow believer as a companion underscores the importance of faith and spiritual guidance in one’s life. Proverbs 27:17 states, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” This verse highlights the positive impact that like-minded companions can have on one another, encouraging spiritual growth and mutual support. Through Tobit’s guidance, we see the influence and importance of surrounding oneself with those who share and strengthen one’s faith. Tobit 5:1-4 provides valuable lessons on the significance of trust, faith, and companionship in life’s journeys. Tobit’s wisdom in advising Tobias to choose a trustworthy and faithful companion reflects his care as a father and his understanding of the importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals. The journey Tobias embarks on sets the stage for the trials and triumphs that will follow, underscoring the theme of faith and providence that runs throughout the book of Tobit and the Bible as a whole.
Tobit 5:5-9
Tobit instructs his son Tobias before sending him on a journey to Media to retrieve money that Tobit had deposited there in Tobit 5:5-9. Tobit advises Tobias to seek a trustworthy person to accompany him on the journey. This section of the passage is rich in valuable lessons that can be extracted and applied to our own lives.
Firstly, Tobit’s concern for Tobias’ safety and well-being demonstrates the love and care that a parent has for their child. His advice to find a trustworthy companion highlights the importance of seeking wise counsel and support when undertaking journeys or making important decisions in life. This resonates with Proverbs 24:6 which says, “For by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory.”
Secondly, Tobias demonstrates obedience and respect towards his father by heeding his instructions without question. This obedience reflects the biblical value of honoring one’s parents, as stated in the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20:12. Tobias’ willingness to listen and follow his father’s guidance sets a positive example for us to emulate in our relationships with our own parents and authority figures. Tobias embarks upon a journey that serves as a metaphor for the spiritual journey that believers often undertake in their faith walk. We too encounter trials and tribulations on our journey of faith, just as Tobias faces challenges, obstacles, and uncertainties on his physical journey to Media. However, like Tobias, we are called to trust in God’s providence and guidance, knowing that He is with us every step of the way. This resonates with Psalm 23:4, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Tobit 5:5-9 offers timeless lessons on the importance of seeking wise counsel, obeying parental guidance, and trusting in God’s faithfulness throughout life’s journeys. The passage encourages us to lean on the wisdom of those who care for us, to honor our authorities, and to have faith that God is watching over us, guiding us through both the physical and spiritual journeys we embark upon in our lives.
Tobit 5:10-14
Tobias and the angel Raphael are introduced to each other in Tobit 5:10-14. Tobias is hesitant to go on the journey his father Tobit has asked of him because he is unfamiliar with the companion Raphael, who is revealed as an angel of the Lord. Tobias expresses his doubts and fears to Raphael, highlighting his mistrust and apprehension in embarking on this adventure with a stranger. However, Raphael assures Tobias by revealing his true identity and mission to accompany him on this journey.
This section of the passage is significant as it demonstrates the theme of divine guidance and providence in the book of Tobit. Despite Tobias’ initial doubts and fears, God has sent Raphael, disguised as a human, to guide and protect Tobias on his journey. This emphasizes the idea of God’s presence in our lives, even when we may not recognize it at first. Raphael’s reassurance to Tobias serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and His willingness to send His messengers to aid and assist His people in times of need.
The presence of angels as messengers and guides is a recurring theme in the Bible. Angels frequently appear to individuals in the Old Testament to deliver messages from God or to provide guidance and protection. One notable example is the story of the angel Gabriel appearing to Mary to announce the birth of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke. These encounters with angels serve as a reminder of God’s supernatural intervention in the lives of His people and His care and concern for them.
Furthermore, Tobias’ reaction to Raphael’s revelation also reflects the theme of trust and obedience in the book of Tobit. Despite his initial doubts, Tobias decides to trust in Raphael and follow his guidance. This act of faith and obedience sets the stage for the miraculous events that unfold later in the story, demonstrating the importance of trusting in God’s plans even when we may not fully understand them. Tobit 5:10-14 highlights the themes of divine guidance, trust, and obedience. Through the interaction between Tobias and Raphael, we are reminded of God’s presence in our lives, His faithfulness in sending His messengers to guide and protect us, and the importance of trusting in His plans even when faced with uncertainty. It serves as a powerful message of faith and reliance on God’s providence in all circumstances.
Tobit 5:15-18
An important moment in the story of Tobit is encountered in Tobit 5:15-18. Let’s break down this passage into sections for a more detailed exploration.
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“But he said to him, ‘I will go with you. I know all the roads, for I have often gone to Media and have crossed all its plains, and I know its mountains and all its roads. Tobit agrees to accompany Tobias, who has been sent on a journey to retrieve money that Tobit had entrusted to a friend in Media years before. Tobit’s willingness to join Tobias on this journey is significant. It shows his concern for his son’s safety and willingness to guide him on this important journey. This act of Tobit displays his fatherly love and protective nature toward Tobias, despite his own blindness and hardships.
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“Then Tobit said to him, ‘Brother, show me of what family and tribe you are.’”
Here we witness Tobit asking the angel Raphael, who has disguised himself as a human, about his background. Tobit’s inquiry into Raphael’s lineage reflects the importance of family and tribal connections in the biblical context. Family and tribe were critical components of Israelite identity and were used to identify one’s place in society and one’s responsibilities within the community. Tobit’s question also reveals his desire to know more about the man who would be accompanying his son on this important journey, showing his diligence in ensuring Tobias’ safety and well-being.
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“But he said to him, ‘Can you seek the tribe of one captured in the days of King Shalmaneser of Assyria, when he was taken captive because he did not believe that Nineveh, the city of the Assyrians, would be spared? Raphael deflects Tobit’s question about his lineage by focusing on a historical event involving a member of the Israelite tribe of Naphtali who was taken captive during the Assyrian conquest of Israel in this section. This reference to the Assyrian exile highlights the theme of faithfulness and disbelief in God’s promises. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of remaining steadfast in faith, even in the face of adversity. This event foreshadows the challenges Tobias and his companions will face on their journey and emphasizes the need for trust in God’s providence.
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“Tobit said to him, ‘Brother, tell me your name and your tribe.’”
Here, Tobit persistently asks Raphael to reveal more about himself, demonstrating his curiosity and concern for the stranger who has offered to accompany Tobias. This repeated inquiry into Raphael’s identity underscores the importance of establishing trust and familiarity before embarking on a journey together. Tobit’s desire to know more about Raphael’s background reveals his cautious nature and desire to ensure that Tobias will be in good hands during their travels. Tobit 5:15-18 provides valuable insights into the themes of family, faith, and trust in God’s guidance. Through Tobit’s interactions with Raphael, we see the importance of familial bonds, the consequences of disbelief, and the significance of seeking God’s protection and guidance in times of need. The journey that Tobias and Tobit are about to undertake is not just a physical one but also a spiritual and emotional one, where they will rely on each other’s strengths and God’s providence to overcome obstacles and fulfill their mission. The lessons learned from this passage are timeless and resonant, reminding readers of the enduring value of faith, family, and divine guidance in their own journeys of life and faith.
After Tobit 5
The weary traveler Tobias had now completed his journey, guided by the angel Raphael. He had retrieved the money his father Tobit had entrusted to a distant relative, and was ready to return home. Yet, the most perilous part of his quest still lay ahead. For as he prepared to make the long journey back, he knew he must face the fearsome demon that had plagued his family for years. With the Lord’s protection, Tobias set out, determined to confront this evil and restore his father’s sight. The road ahead would be treacherous, but with his faithful companion by his side, Tobias pressed on, his heart filled with hope and courage.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.