1 As they went, they came to Ecbatana, a city in Media, where they lodged in the house of Raguel. And Tobiah found a wife.
2 Then Raguel asked them to stay another fourteen days, and he would give Sarah to Tobias his son as a wife.
3 Then Raguel began to pray with tears, and to bless God, saying,
4 Then he called his daughter Sarah, and she came to her father, and he took her by the hand and gave her to be wife to Tobias, saying, “Behold, take her according to the law of Moses and lead her away to your father.”
5 Then Tobias said to Raphael, “Brother Azariah, speak of those things of which you talked in the way, and let this business be dispatched.”
6 And Raguel said to the angel, “Brother Azariah, I will give her to you as the wife according to the decree of the law of Moses.
7 And now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will take care of whatever we need.
8 And likewise, Edna his wife and Sara his daughter wept.
9 So he said to them, “Do not be afraid, for she has been assigned to you by God. But now listen to me, and I will speak to you. I will tell you the truth.
10 Raguel said to his wife Edna, “How much the young man resembles my cousin Tobit!”
11 And Raguel said to his wife Edna, “How much the young man resembles my cousin Tobit!”
12 Raguel said, “Stay with me, and I will send someone to inform Tobit about your situation.”
13 Then he called his daughter Sarah, and she came to her father, and he took her by the hand and gave her to be wife to Tobias, saying, “Behold, take her according to the law of Moses and lead her away to your father.”
14 And he wept, and said, Blessed art thou, O God, and blessed is thy name for ever; and blessed are all thy holy angels.
15 Then Raguel called his wife Edna and said to her, “Sister, make up the other room, and take her into it.”
16 So he called his daughter Sarah, and she came to her father, and he took her by the hand and gave her to be wife to Tobias, saying, “Behold, take her according to the law of Moses and lead her away to your father.”
17 Then he called his daughter Sarah, and she came to her father, and he took her by the hand and gave her to be wife to Tobias, saying, “Behold, take her according to the law of Moses and lead her away to your father.”
18 So he called his daughter Sarah, and she came to her father, and he took her by the hand and gave her to be wife to Tobias, saying, “Behold, take her according to the law of Moses and lead her away to your father.”
The True Meaning of Tobit 7
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 providence of God. Tobit’s son Tobias and his kinsman Sarah, whose lives have been intertwined by the hand of the Almighty, finally reunite in this chapter. The story reminds us of the importance of trusting in the Lord’s plan, even when the path ahead seems uncertain. The events that transpire in this passage will set the stage for a remarkable series of events that will test the characters’ resolve and deepen their understanding of the divine.
Throughout the chapter, the author draws upon other biblical references, such as the story of Sarah’s previous suitors, who met untimely ends at the hands of the demon Asmodeus (Tobit 3:8). This allusion serves to foreshadow the challenges that Tobias and Sarah will face, and the need for divine intervention to overcome them.
Tobit 7:1-5
Tobiah and Sarah are reunited with Tobit and Anna, Tobiah’s parents, after their wedding in Tobit 7:1-5. The family’s joy and celebration are palpable, as they welcome the newlyweds into their home with great delight. This reunion marks a pivotal moment in the story of Tobit, where the themes of love, faith, and divine providence are prominently displayed.
The union of Tobiah and Sarah is significant as it emphasizes the importance of fidelity and trust in God’s plan. Despite the challenges and struggles that Tobiah faced on his journey to Rages, he demonstrated unwavering faith in God’s guidance and protection. Similarly, Sarah’s story is one of perseverance and hope, as she had endured the tragic loss of seven husbands before finding happiness with Tobiah. This union serves as a powerful testament to the redemptive power of love and faith in overcoming adversity.
The role of Tobit and Anna as loving and supportive parents is also highlighted in this passage. Throughout the narrative of Tobit, Tobit is portrayed as a righteous man who remains faithful to God despite experiencing great suffering and hardship. His joy upon the return of Tobiah and Sarah reflects a father’s love and pride in his son, as well as a recognition of God’s faithfulness in bringing about this reunion.
The themes of marriage, family, and divine intervention that are present in Tobit 7:1-5 resonate throughout the Bible, underscoring the importance of these relationships in the overarching narrative of God’s redemptive plan for humanity. The apostle Paul frequently uses the metaphor of marriage in the New Testament to describe the relationship between Christ and the Church, emphasizing the sacrificial love and unity that should characterize this bond (Ephesians 5:22-33). The story of Tobiah and Sarah serves as a poignant illustration of the spiritual significance of marriage and the blessings that come from honoring God in all aspects of our lives.
Tobit 7:6-11
Tobias and Sarah’s beautiful union in Tobit 7:6-11 is a pivotal moment in the Book of Tobit. The passage begins with Sarra’s father, Raguel, commanding his servants to prepare a room for Tobias to sleep in. This act of hospitality and trust marks the beginning of a significant interaction between Tobias and Sarah, orchestrated by divine providence. We are reminded of the delicate nature of their situation as Tobias enters the house and meets Sarah. Sarah had been plagued by a demon who had killed seven of her previous suitors on their wedding nights. This detail is crucial as it sets the stage for the miraculous intervention that is about to take place. The presence of the demon is a manifestation of the spiritual warfare that often underlies human experiences, emphasizing the need for faith and divine protection.
Raguel then instructs his daughter, Sarah, to welcome Tobias, pointing to the cultural norm of parental involvement in marital arrangements during that time. Despite the challenges they faced, Tobias and Sarah’s union is blessed by Raguel, illustrating the importance of familial support and approval in relationships. This aspect reflects the biblical theme of the significance of family and community in the lives of believers.
The passage progresses with Tobias and Sarah praying for God’s mercy and protection. This act of prayer is a powerful testimony to their faith and reliance on God in the face of adversity. It underscores the theme of the importance of prayer in seeking God’s guidance and intervention, especially in times of hardship or uncertainty. Throughout the Bible, we see numerous examples of faithful individuals turning to God in prayer and experiencing His deliverance and faithfulness.
Lastly, the passage concludes with Tobias and Sarah retiring to bed, as Raguel prepares to fulfill his role in ensuring a proper and blessed marriage for them. This scene symbolizes the culmination of their journey, marked by trust in God and guided by divine providence. It serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness in orchestrating the circumstances of our lives for His glory and our good, even in the midst of trials and dangers. Tobit 7:6-11 presents a narrative rich in themes of faith, protection, providence, and familial love. Through the story of Tobias and Sarah, we are reminded of the power of trust in God’s plan, the necessity of prayer in times of need, and the importance of seeking God’s blessings through obedience and faithfulness. The passage serves as a testament to the enduring truths and timeless messages found in the Bible, offering readers inspiration and guidance for their own journeys of faith and obedience.
Tobit 7:12-17
Tobias and Sarah, who have now been married, are both eagerly anticipating their wedding night in Tobit 7. Sarah’s previous seven marriages had all ended tragically, with her husbands being killed by a demon before they could consummate the marriage. This has understandably left Sarah feeling afraid and hopeless, as she feared that Tobias might meet the same fate. So, as Tobias and Sarah are preparing for their marriage, Tobit advises his son to remember the words of the angel Raphael, who had told Tobias to burn the fish’s heart and liver during their journey.
When Tobias and Sarah are finally alone on their wedding night, Tobias follows his father’s advice and burns the heart and liver of the fish as an offering to God. Tobias is obeying the instructions given by the angel Raphael, who had provided guidance and protection throughout their journey. This act of faith and obedience is significant because it demonstrates Tobias’ trust in God’s plan and belief in divine intervention. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of following God’s commands, even when faced with difficult circumstances. The angel Raphael watches over Tobias and Sarah as they pray together, ensuring their safety and protecting them from harm. This supernatural presence highlights the theme of divine intervention and the belief that God is always present, guiding and protecting His followers. The role of angels in the Bible is significant, as they are often portrayed as messengers of God who provide guidance, protection, and deliverance to those in need. Raphael’s presence in this story comforts and reassures Tobias and Sarah, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles.
When Tobias and Sarah’s prayers are heard, God sends the angel Raphael to drive away the demon Asmodeus, who had been the cause of Sarah’s previous husbands’ deaths. Raphael ensures that Tobias and Sarah can finally consummate their marriage without fear of harm by vanquishing the demon. This miraculous intervention by God illustrates His power to overcome evil and protect His faithful servants. It also emphasizes the importance of trust and faith in God’s divine plan, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Tobias offers a heartfelt prayer of thanksgiving and praise to God after driving away the demon and consummating his marriage with Sarah in Tobit 8. He acknowledges God’s role in their lives and gives thanks for His mercy and faithfulness. This act of gratitude is a powerful testament to the impact of prayer and the importance of acknowledging God’s blessings in our lives. Through Tobias’ prayer, we are reminded of the power of thankfulness and the significance of recognizing God’s presence in our lives. The story of Tobias and Sarah in Tobit 7 ultimately serves as a powerful example of faith, obedience, and divine intervention. It highlights the importance of trusting in God’s plan, following His commands, and seeking His guidance. The presence of angels, the power of prayer, and the victory over evil all contribute to the overarching theme of God’s sovereignty and protection over His people. The story of Tobias and Sarah is a reminder of God’s faithfulness and mercy, as well as His ability to bring about miracles in the lives of those who put their trust in Him.
After Tobit 7
The young couple had now been joined in holy matrimony, their union blessed by the Lord. The reverend knew that the road ahead would not be without its challenges as they prepared to embark on their new life together. Yet, with faith and devotion, he believed they would weather any storm that came their way. For in the chapters to come, the true test of their love and commitment would be revealed, as they faced trials that would test the very foundations of their relationship. But the reverend had no doubt that, with God’s guidance, they would emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.
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.