1 When they had finished eating, they escorted Tobias in to her.
2 So he called him and said, “My friend, today we must not fail to give thanks for what the Lord has done to you, and to declare all these wonderful deeds of God.
3 And that night they both slept in the marriage chamber and Tobias arose from bed and said to Sarah, “Sister, get up, and let us pray and implore our Lord that he grant us mercy and safety.”
4 And he took hold of her hand, and gave her to be wife to Tobias, saying, Behold, take her after the law of Moses, and lead her away to thy father. And he blessed them;
5 Then Raguel arose, and gave him Sara his wife, and half his goods, servants, and cattle, and money.
6 And now, O Lord, I am not taking this sister of mine because of lust, but with sincerity.
7 And now, O Lord, I am not taking this sister of mine because of lust, but with sincerity.
8 And now, O Lord, I am not taking this sister of mine because of lust, but with sincerity.
9 Then Raguel slaughtered a ram from the flock and they gave them a cordial reception.
10 When the parents had gone out and shut the door of the room, Tobias got out of bed and said to Sarah, “Sister, get up, and let us pray and implore our Lord that he grant us mercy and safety.”
11 And they began to say, “Blessed are you, O God of our fathers, and blessed is your holy and glorious name forever and ever.”
12 So he called her and she came, and he sat down by her.
13 Then Raguel praised God and said, “O God, you are worthy of all honor and praise; let all your creatures serve you.
14 And he wept, and said, Blessed art thou, O God of our fathers, and blessed is thy holy and glorious name for ever; let the heavens bless thee, and all thy creatures.
15 Then Raguel slaughtered a ram from the flock and they gave them a cordial reception.
16 And they began to say, “Blessed are you, O God of our fathers, and blessed is your holy and glorious name forever. Amen.”
17 And Raphael was sent to heal the two of them: Tobit, to remove the white films from his eyes, so that he might see God’s light with his eyes; and Sarah, the daughter of Raguel, to give her in marriage to Tobias the son of Tobit, and to bind Asmodeus the evil demon, because Tobias was entitled to possess her.
18 So they began to pray for them, that they might be protected, and Tobias said, “Blessed are you, O God of our fathers, and blessed is your holy and glorious name forever. Let the heavens and all your creation bless you forever.
19 And they began to say, “Blessed are you, O God of our fathers, and blessed is your holy and glorious name forever. Amen.”
20 And likewise, their wives are to their husbands in all respects as the fruitful vine is to the vineyard.
21 And now, O Lord, I am not taking this sister of mine because of lust, but with sincerity.
The True Meaning of Tobit 8
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 tale that weaves together themes of faith, family, and the triumph of good over evil. Tobias and Sarah experience a pivotal moment in their lives in this chapter. After their marriage, they face a daunting challenge – the demonic forces that have plagued Sarah’s previous husbands. However, through the guidance of the angel Raphael and the power of prayer, they are able to overcome this obstacle and secure their future together.
The events in this chapter echo the teachings found in other biblical texts, such as the importance of purity and the role of divine intervention in the lives of the faithful. As we delve into the narrative, the characters sustain unwavering trust in God, even in the face of adversity.
Tobit 8:1-3
Verse 1 of Tobit 8 sets the scene for a beautiful and heartfelt prayer between Tobias and Sarah, the young couple who are about to come together in marriage. The mention of God’s blessing shows their reverence and reliance on God in the decision to enter into this union. This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking God’s blessing and guidance in all aspects of life, especially in matters as significant as marriage. It serves as a reminder for readers to always include God in their plans and decisions, trusting in His wisdom and providence.
Moving on to verse 2, Tobias begins his prayer, acknowledging God as the Creator of all things, including the institution of marriage. Tobias recognizes the divine origin and purpose of marriage by praising God as the one who created Adam and gave him Eve as a helper and support. This reference to the story of Adam and Eve in the book of Genesis highlights the foundational role of marriage in God’s plan for humanity. It underscores the idea that marriage is not merely a human institution but a sacred bond established by God Himself. This serves as a reminder for couples to approach their relationship with reverence and gratitude for God’s design. Tobias continues his prayer in verse 3 by lifting up his desire to take Sarah as his wife with pure intentions and a heart full of love and respect. His prayer for God to grant them mercy and protection reflects his understanding of the challenges they may face as they come together in marriage. This demonstrates Tobias’s humility in seeking God’s help and his desire to honor God in their relationship. Tobias sets an example for couples to prioritize their spiritual connection and reliance on God in their journey together by invoking God’s presence and guidance. This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking God’s blessings not only at the beginning of a union but throughout the course of marriage, understanding that God’s grace is needed to sustain and strengthen their bond. A beautiful illustration of a couple entrusting their relationship to God, acknowledging His sovereignty in their union, and seeking His guidance and protection is seen in examining these verses. This passage serves as a profound reminder of the importance of centering marriages on a foundation of faith and prayer, recognizing that God is the ultimate source of love, strength, and wisdom in all relationships. It encourages couples to approach marriage with reverence, gratitude, and a commitment to seek God’s will in all aspects of their life together. Through the prayer of Tobias and Sarah, readers are inspired to cultivate a deep and abiding connection with God within their marriages, understanding that He is the one who sustains and blesses their union.
Tobit 8:4-8
Tobiah and Sarah pray fervently on their wedding night in Tobit 8:4-8. Let’s break down these verses to dig deeper into their significance:
Verse 4: “After this Ahiqar took Tobit aside and said to him, ‘When your father goes to bed, you must get up and out the lamp. But do not lie down and-together that night. Instead, let the bride of yours go to her own father’s house. Afterwards, he can have her to marry.”
Here we see Ahiqar, who was Tobit’s nephew and a trusted advisor, giving Tobit some unconventional advice for their wedding night. Ahiqar suggests that Tobiah should not consummate his marriage with Sarah on the first night, but rather let her go back to her father’s house. This advice highlights the care and respect Ahiqar had for Tobiah and his new wife Sarah. It also underscores the principle of patience and self-control, even in the context of marriage, which is a lesson that remains timeless and relevant to couples today. The idea of waiting and honoring the sanctity of the marital relationship is one that is echoed throughout the Bible. For instance, in 1 Corinthians 7:5, it says, “Do not deprive each other except perhaps by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.”
Verse 5: “Tobiah replied, ‘Yes, I will do everything you have told me.’”
Here we witness Tobiah’s obedience and trust in Ahiqar’s counsel. Tobiah’s willingness to follow the advice given to him by his elder reflects the importance of seeking wise counsel and submitting to the guidance of those who are more experienced or knowledgeable. This act of respect and obedience is a crucial aspect of the relational dynamics within biblical narratives. Proverbs 19:20 affirms this by stating, “Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.”
Verse 6: “So Raguel called his daughter Sarah, and she came to him. He took her by the hand and gave her to Tobiah with the words, ‘Take her according to the law. We witness the father’s role in the marriage ceremony in this verse. Raguel plays a pivotal role in giving his daughter, Sarah, to Tobiah according to the Jewish custom and law. This act symbolizes the transfer of responsibility and care from the father to the husband. Throughout the Bible, the importance of parental involvement in marriage is emphasized. For instance, in Ephesians 6:1-3, it says, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’ (this is the first commandment with a promise), ‘that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.’”
Verse 7-8: “Then he called his wife and took a scroll, and wrote out the contract; and they began to eat. Raguel called his wife Edna and said to her, ‘Sister, prepare the other bedroom and take her there.’”
These verses depict the formalities surrounding the marriage ceremony. Raguel and his wife, Edna, follow the traditional Jewish customs by drawing up a marriage contract and preparing a separate bedroom for the newlyweds. This attention to detail and adherence to customs points to the significance of honoring cultural and religious practices within the institution of marriage. These verses also highlight the importance of preparation and organization when it comes to major life events, such as marriage. This emphasis on order and tradition is a recurrent theme throughout the Bible, underscoring the importance of structure and reverence in various aspects of life. These verses in Tobit 8:4-8 provide valuable insights into the themes of patience, obedience, respect for elders, parental involvement in marriage, and adherence to tradition. Readers can gain a deeper understanding of the biblical principles surrounding marriage and interpersonal relationships that are applicable and relevant across different cultural and historical contexts by examining the actions and decisions of the characters within these verses.
Tobit 8:9-10
Tobias and Sarah come together in prayer on their wedding night in Tobit 8:9-10. This passage elaborates on a crucial moment in the narrative of Tobit and highlights the significance of prayer and the sanctity of marriage within the Biblical context. The verses emphasize the importance of prayer as a foundational element in the lives of believers, especially in times of great joy or need. Tobias and Sarah, both devout individuals facing trials and hardships, recognize the power of prayer in their union and commit to seeking God’s blessing in their marriage.
The act of prayer is central to the life of a believer in the Bible, offering a direct line of communication with God. It signifies humility, dependence, and faith in God’s providence and guidance. Tobias and Sarah’s prayer on their wedding night in this specific context demonstrates their acknowledgment of God’s role in their lives and their desire for His presence in their relationship. They invite God’s grace into their union by invoking His blessing and protection, recognizing that their marriage is not just a human institution but a divine covenant.
The union of Tobias and Sarah is a significant event in the Book of Tobit, as it marks the resolution of longstanding challenges and the beginning of a new chapter filled with hope and joy. Tobias, the son of Tobit, embarks on a journey to retrieve his father’s lost wealth and is accompanied by the archangel Raphael in disguise. Throughout their journey, Tobias displays qualities of faith, obedience, and courage, which ultimately lead to the healing of his father’s blindness and the restoration of their family’s fortunes. Sarah, on the other hand, has experienced the tragic fate of seven successive husbands who were killed by the demon Asmodeus on their wedding nights. Despite her suffering, Sarah remains faithful and prayerful, hoping for deliverance and the chance to experience love and companionship without fear.
The convergence of these two narratives in the marriage of Tobias and Sarah symbolizes the triumph of faith, perseverance, and God’s providence over adversity and despair. Their prayer on the wedding night not only seals their commitment to each other but also signifies their entrustment of their union to God’s care and guidance. It reflects the biblical theme of God’s redemptive power and transformative love, which can turn sorrow into joy, despair into hope, and brokenness into wholeness. This passage underscores the belief in the sacredness of marriage as ordained by God, where prayer becomes a cornerstone of mutual love, respect, and fidelity. The theme of marriage recurs throughout scripture in the broader biblical context, symbolizing the covenant relationship between God and His people. The union of Tobias and Sarah echoes the imagery of Christ as the bridegroom and the Church as His bride, highlighting the spiritual significance of marriage as a reflection of God’s love, faithfulness, and unity. Verses such as Ephesians 5:22-33 and Revelation 19:7-9 further expound on the profound mystery of Christ’s relationship with His Church through the metaphor of marriage, emphasizing the sacrificial love, mutual submission, and eternal bond that characterize this divine union. Tobit 8:9-10 encapsulates the essence of prayer, marriage, and divine intervention within the overarching narrative of Tobias and Sarah. It invites readers to contemplate the power of prayer in invoking God’s blessing and presence in all aspects of life, particularly in the sacred covenant of marriage. Through the union of Tobias and Sarah, we witness the transformative impact of faith, love, and redemption, illustrating God’s faithfulness in turning trials into triumphs and sorrows into celebrations. This passage stands as a poignant reminder of the enduring themes of hope, healing, and the sanctity of marriage woven throughout the tapestry of biblical narratives.
Tobit 8:11-12
Tobias and Sarah have just gotten married in a crucial moment in the Book of Tobit, as witnessed in Tobit 8:11-12. The verses read: “They both arose and prayed earnestly that deliverance might be theirs, and the Lord took pity on them both. Tobit arose from bed and said to his wife, ‘My love, get up. We pray and implore our Lord to grant us mercy and safety.’ She got up, and they started to pray and implore that deliverance might be theirs, saying, ‘Blessed are you, O God of our fathers; praised be your name forever and ever. Let the heavens and all your creation praise you forever.’”
Here, we see the power of prayer and faith in action. Tobias and Sarah, despite the trials and tribulations they faced, did not lose hope. They knew that their union was blessed by God, and they turned to Him in prayer, seeking deliverance and mercy. This moment emphasizes the importance of turning to God in times of need and trusting in His divine plan.
The prayer itself is a beautiful example of praise and thanksgiving to God. Tobias and Sarah acknowledge God as the “God of our fathers” and praise His name, showing reverence and gratitude for His presence in their lives. This prayer reminds us of the importance of gratitude in our relationship with God. We are encouraged in Philippians 4:6-7 to present our requests to God with thanksgiving, knowing that He hears our prayers.
Additionally, Tobit’s involvement in the prayer with his wife highlights the importance of unity in marriage. Tobit and Sarah strengthen their bond as a couple and demonstrate their shared faith and reliance on God by praying together. This unity in prayer echoes the biblical teachings on the significance of marriage as a sacred union blessed by God. Husbands in Ephesians 5:25 are called to love their wives as Christ loved the church, emphasizing the sacrificial and unifying nature of marriage.
Therefore, Tobit 8:11-12 serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of prayer, the importance of gratitude towards God, and the unity and faith required in marriage. Through these verses, we are encouraged to trust in God’s providence, offer prayers of thanksgiving, and cultivate strong relationships based on shared faith and devotion.
Tobit 8:13-14
The parents were outside the bedroom crying and praying in Tobit 8:13-14. Tobias got up from the bed and said, ‘Sister, get up, and let us pray that the Lord may have mercy upon us.’” This scene takes place after Tobit and Sarah were married and were about to consummate their marriage. However, prior to this, Sarah had been married seven times, but each time her husband died on their wedding night before they could consummate the marriage due to a demon that had been afflicting her.
The fact that the parents were outside the bedroom crying and praying symbolizes the fear and desperation they must have felt, knowing the fate that had befallen the previous suitors of Sarah. It shows the power of prayer in times of distress and how, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, faith in God can provide comfort and hope.
Tobias’ words to Sarah, urging her to get up and join him in prayer, demonstrate his caring and compassionate nature. Despite the challenging circumstances, Tobias remains steadfast in his faith and encourages Sarah to do the same. This displays the importance of mutual support and prayer in a relationship, especially when faced with difficulties.
This passage highlights themes of faith, perseverance, and the power of prayer in the face of adversity. It shows how God can work miracles and overcome seemingly impossible situations when His followers trust in Him. The story of Tobias and Sarah is a testament to the belief that with God, all things are possible, even in the most dire of circumstances.
Throughout the Bible, we see countless examples of individuals facing seemingly hopeless situations, only to have their faith and prayers answered by God. Job’s unwavering faith in God ultimately leads to his restoration and blessings after enduring immense suffering in the Book of Job. The story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead in the New Testament showcases the power of God to overcome even death itself. We can see how the story of Tobias and Sarah serves as a reminder of the enduring message of hope, faith, and divine intervention that runs throughout Scripture by examining Tobit 8:13-14 in the context of these broader themes in the Bible. It inspires readers to trust in God’s plan, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges, knowing that His mercy and grace are always present for those who believe.
Tobit 8:15-17
Tobit 8:15-17 reveals a beautiful prayer of Tobiah and Sarah on their wedding night. The prayer starts with Tobiah praising God and acknowledging His sovereignty and faithfulness. He recognizes the importance of seeking God’s blessing and guidance in their marriage, showing the importance of God being at the center of their union. This emphasis on God’s role in marriage is a recurring theme in the Bible, highlighting the sacredness of the marital relationship and the need for God to be the foundation of a successful marriage. Tobiah asks God to grant him and Sarah mercy and to allow them to grow old together in health and happiness as the prayer continues. This reflects the desire for a long-lasting and fulfilling marriage, rooted in love and under God’s protection. This prayer showcases the importance of seeking God’s blessings in all aspects of our lives, especially in something as significant as marriage.
The mention of “Raguel” in this passage is also noteworthy. Raguel plays a significant role in the Book of Tobit as Sarah’s father. He had given his daughter Sarah in marriage to seven different husbands, all of whom were killed by the demon Asmodeus on their wedding nights. The reference to Raguel in this prayer highlights the trials and tribulations that Tobiah and Sarah had to face before coming together in marriage. It serves as a reminder of God’s providence and ability to bring good out of seemingly hopeless situations.
The prayer concludes with Tobiah and Sarah praising God together. This unity in prayer underscores the importance of mutual faith and devotion in a marriage. Tobiah and Sarah demonstrate their commitment to God and each other by praying together, setting a strong foundation for their life together.
This passage in Tobit points to the importance of prayer, faith, and God’s presence in the institution of marriage. It echoes the biblical teaching that marriage is a sacred covenant before God and should be approached with humility, gratitude, and a desire to honor Him in all aspects of the relationship. The example of Tobiah and Sarah’s prayer on their wedding night serves as a timeless reminder of the significance of seeking God’s blessings and guidance in the journey of marriage.
Tobit 8:18-21
Tobit and Sarah experience a significant moment in the story in Tobit 8:18-21. Before delving into the verses, let’s first set the scene. Tobit is a righteous man who has been blinded and is struggling with his faith due to his hardships. Sarah, on the other hand, has been married seven times, but her husbands have all been killed by a demon before they could consummate their marriage with her. God has sent Tobit’s son Tobias to help both Tobit and Sarah in this context.
Now, let’s break down the verses:
– Verse 18 states, “The prayer of both was heard in the presence of the glory of the great God.” This verse highlights the power of prayer and the importance of faith. Despite their troubles, Tobit and Sarah continued to pray, and their prayers were heard by God. This serves as a reminder that God is always listening, even in our most desperate moments. The angel Raphael is mentioned in verses 19-20. Raphael plays a crucial role in the Book of Tobit as he guides Tobias on his journey and helps him defeat the demon that has been tormenting Sarah. The presence of Raphael underscores the idea that God sends His angels to assist and protect His faithful followers. This theme is echoed in Hebrews 1:14, which speaks of angels being “ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation.”
- Lastly, in verse 21, we see Tobit and Sarah receiving blessings for their faithfulness. Tobit’s prayer for healing is answered as his eyesight is restored, and Sarah is freed from the demon that had been plaguing her. This moment of miraculous healing and deliverance emphasizes the power of God to intervene in the lives of His people and bring about redemption and restoration. Tobit 8:18-21 conveys a message of hope, faith, and the transformative power of prayer. It reminds us that God hears our prayers, sends His angels to aid us in our time of need, and is able to work miracles in our lives. The stories of Tobit, Sarah, and Tobias serve as examples of perseverance in faith and trust in God’s providence, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. Through their trials and triumphs, we are encouraged to trust in God’s goodness and mercy, knowing that He is always present and able to work wonders in our lives.
After Tobit 8
The young couple had finally found peace and solace in their newfound love, but as the sun set on their joyous union, a new challenge loomed on the horizon. The demonic forces that had plagued their path now sought to tear them apart, testing their faith and their commitment to one another. I, as the reverend, knew that the road ahead would not be an easy one, but with the guidance of the Almighty, they would find the strength to overcome the darkness that threatened to consume them. The next chapter would reveal the true measure of their devotion, and the power of divine intervention to protect those who walk the righteous path.
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.