In the Bible, the name Tobias means “God is good.” He is a character in the Book of Tobit, where he is depicted as the son of Tobit and plays a significant role in the narrative of healing and divine providence.
Scripture
1 The book of the words of Tobit, son of Tobiel, the son of Ananiel, the son of Aduel, the son of Gabael, of the descendants of Asiel and the tribe of Naphtali,
2 who in the time of Enemessar king of the Assyrians was taken into captivity from Thisbe, which is to the south of Kedesh Naphtali in Galilee above Asher.
3 I, Tobit, walked in the ways of truth and righteousness all the days of my life, and I performed many acts of charity to my brethren and countrymen who went with me into the land of the Assyrians.
4 And when he was in his prime, he took a wife, Sarah, the daughter of Raguel the son of Edna, and of the tribe of Naphtali.
5 He went into Media and settled in Ecbatana with Raguel, who was his relative.
6 But I alone went often to Jerusalem at the feasts, as it was ordained for all the people of Israel by an everlasting decree, having the firstfruits and tenths of increase, with that which was first shorn; and them gave I at the altar to the priests the children of Aaron.
7 And all my brothers were scattered from the land of Israel to the land of Nineveh, and Ahikar went with me.
8 And when he was in his prime, he was taken captive into the land of Nineveh in Assyria.
9 And when he was carried away into Assyria in the captivity and remained there, I was left alone.
10 But I alone went often to Jerusalem at the feasts, as it was ordained for all the people of Israel by an everlasting decree, having the firstfruits and tenths of increase, with that which was first shorn; and them gave I at the altar to the priests the children of Aaron.
11 When all my kindred and our whole house of Naphtali lived in the land of Israel, my ancestor Naphtali went down to Jerusalem with all the people of Naphtali, and he worshiped there at the house of God.
12 And I alone went often to Jerusalem at the feasts, as it was ordained for all the people of Israel by an everlasting decree, having the firstfruits and tenths of increase, with that which was first shorn; and them gave I at the altar to the priests the children of Aaron.
13 And I went into Media, and I left in trust with Gabael, the brother of Gabrias, at Rages a city of Media ten talents of silver.
14 And I went into Media, and I left in trust with Gabael, the brother of Gabrias, at Rages a city of Media ten talents of silver.
15 And I went into Media, and left in trust with Gabael, the brother of Gabrias, at Rages a city of Media ten talents of silver.
16 But I alone went often to Jerusalem at the feasts, as it was ordained for all the people of Israel by an everlasting decree, having the firstfruits and tenths of increase, with that which was first shorn; and them gave I at the altar to the priests the children of Aaron.
17 And Ahiqar gave me the job of buying.
18 And many captives were taken to Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, and I was taken captive to Nineveh.
19 And Ahiqar went to live in the house of Ahikar, the chancellor, who was in charge of the accounts, and Ahikar interceded for him with King Shalmaneser.
20 And all my kindred were eating the unleavened bread, but I alone went often to Jerusalem
21 And I went into Media, and left in trust with Gabael, the brother of Gabrias, at Rages a city of Media ten talents of silver.
22 And all my kindred and our whole house perished with a violent death in the land of Nineveh.
Tobit 1:1-22
Meaning of Tobias in the Bible
The name Tobias, meaning “God is good,” encapsulates a central theme of the Book of Tobit: the steadfastness and benevolence of God even in the midst of trials and suffering. Throughout the narrative, Tobias embarks on a journey that involves facing various adversities, including the haunting presence of the demon Asmodeus. However, his journey ultimately leads to healing and reconciliation—both for himself and his father, Tobit. This divine providence underscores the belief that, regardless of circumstances, a faithful and trusting heart can experience God’s goodness. In Tobit 12:6-7, the archangel Raphael underscores this sentiment, calling upon the characters to “bless God” and “acknowledge his deeds to your children and your grandchildren,” emphasizing that recognizing God’s goodness and mercy plays a crucial role in the life of faith.
Moreover, the story of Tobias also highlights the guidance and protection that come from faithfulness to God’s commandments and the importance of almsgiving and prayer, as seen in Tobit 4:7, where Tobit advises his son to “give alms from your possessions.” This act of generosity ties back to the message of God’s goodness, implying that when we are kind and charitable, we reflect God’s character to the world. Thus, the broader meaning of Tobias resonates with themes of divine assistance, moral integrity, and the blessings that come from living in alignment with God’s will—ultimately reinforcing the affirmation that indeed, “God is good” in all respects of life.
The narrative of Tobias extends beyond his personal journey, serving as an archetypal story that speaks to humanity’s relationship with the divine. His experiences represent the universal struggle between faith and hardship, illustrating how steadfast belief can lead to divine intervention. This theme is underscored by the recurring motif of angels within the text, particularly in the guidance of Raphael, who embodies God’s mercy and support. Through Tobias’s trials, readers are reminded that in times of despair, faith can open pathways to healing and deliverance, highlighting how divine goodness prevails even amidst adversity.
Additionally, the story of Tobias reflects the importance of virtues such as loyalty, love, and community. His relationship with Sarah, for instance, transcends mere romantic partnership, symbolizing God’s covenantal love towards humanity. Their union, marked by trials, is ultimately one of hope and restoration, mirroring God’s intention for companionship and rejoicing. Through the actions of Tobias and the resulting blessings, the text emphasizes that God’s goodness is not only seen through miraculous events but also through the relationships and support systems built on faith and trust in Him. This overarching message reinforces the biblical principle that God’s goodness is woven into the fabric of our lives, urging individuals to acknowledge and participate in the blessings surrounding them.
The Significance of Divine Guidance
The name Tobias, derived from the Hebrew “Toviyah,” meaning “God is good,” reflects the overarching theme of divine guidance and providence in the biblical narrative. Tobias’s journey, as depicted in the Book of Tobit, illustrates how God intervenes in the lives of individuals, providing direction and support during times of hardship. This emphasizes the belief that faith and trust in God can lead to positive outcomes, reinforcing the idea that divine goodness is ever-present in the lives of the faithful.
The Role of Family and Community
Tobias’s story also highlights the importance of family and community in the biblical context. His journey is not just a personal quest but is deeply intertwined with the well-being of his family, particularly his father Tobit and his future wife Sarah. This underscores the biblical principle that relationships and communal support are vital for overcoming challenges. The narrative illustrates how individuals can rely on their loved ones and the broader community to navigate life’s difficulties, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human experiences.
The Journey of Personal Growth and Transformation
Tobias’s character arc represents a journey of personal growth and transformation. Throughout his adventures, he faces various trials that test his faith, courage, and moral integrity. This journey serves as a metaphor for the spiritual and personal development that individuals undergo in their lives. The story of Tobias encourages readers to embrace their own journeys, recognizing that challenges can lead to greater wisdom, strength, and a deeper understanding of one’s purpose in life.
How to Embrace God’s Goodness in Daily Life
Embracing God’s goodness in our daily lives is a transformative journey that begins with intentionality and gratitude. Start each day by acknowledging the blessings around you, no matter how small—perhaps the warmth of the sun, a kind word from a friend, or the simple joy of a warm cup of coffee. Make it a habit to spend a few moments in prayer or reflection, inviting God into your day and seeking His guidance in your decisions and interactions. As you navigate life’s challenges, remind yourself of His promises and faithfulness, allowing these truths to shape your perspective. Look for opportunities to share His goodness with others, whether through acts of kindness, encouraging words, or simply being present for someone in need. By cultivating a heart that recognizes and reflects God’s goodness, you’ll not only deepen your relationship with Him but also inspire those around you to experience His love and grace.
Bible References to the Meaning of Tobias:
Tobit 2:1-14: 1 In the days of Ahaz the son of Jotham, son of Uzziah, king of Judah, there was a man named Tobit of the tribe and city of Naphtali, who in the days of Shalmaneser, king of the Assyrians, was taken into captivity from Thisbe, which is to the south of Kedesh Naphtali in Galilee above Asher.
2 On that day, I buried the dead, and I gave my dinner to the poor; and the dogs came and devoured me, and I was not aware of it.
3 And when he saw many of his kindred who were also in need of burial, he carried off their bodies and hid them in the sand.
4 On that night I washed myself and went into my courtyard and slept by the wall of the courtyard; and my face was uncovered,
5 And I remembered the prophecy of Amos, how he said, “Your feasts shall be turned into mourning, and all your songs into lamentation.”
6 On the same night I returned from burying him, and because I was defiled I slept by the wall of the courtyard, and my face was uncovered.
7 On the same night I returned from burying him, and because I was defiled I slept by the wall of the courtyard, and my face was uncovered.
8 But my neighbors mocked me and said, “Where is he who is said to be your son?” I turned to them with anger and said, “It is true.”
9 Then she said to them, “Where are your alms and your righteous deeds? See now, you are the son of a father who is dead; why do you not remember us?
10 But she replied, “It is not your fault, my child; all this money is yours by right. So take it.” Then she took the money and returned it to him.
11 And my wife Anna also used to work for hire, and she used to send the products to the owners.
12 And when she had done so, she went back to the women’s quarters and continued to weep, and she did not eat bread.
13 And when it was in my house and began to cry, I said to her, ‘Where did you get this kid? Is it not stolen? Return it to its owners; for it is not lawful to eat anything that is stolen.’
14 But Tobit kept celebrating God with all his heart.
Tobit 3:1-17: 1 Then with much grief and anguish of heart I wept, and with groaning began to pray:
2 And in those days, Sarah, the daughter of Raguel, prayed to the Lord and said, “O Lord, the God of righteousness, you hear the prayers of those who are in distress; you see the tears of the widows and orphans.
3 And when she heard these things, she was very sorrowful, so that she thought to have strangled herself; and she said, I am the only daughter of my father, and if I do this, it shall be a reproach unto him, and bring his old age with sorrow to the grave.
4 For it was a great trial for her, and she was very perplexed.
5 And now deal with me as you will.’
6 Then she went out and began to pray in the garden of her house, lifting her voice to heaven.
7 On the same day, at Ecbatana in Media, it also happened that Sarah, the daughter of Raguel, was reproached by one of her father’s maids.
8 Because of the sins of the people of Israel, Jerusalem and your temple are laid waste, and now, our people are scattered.
9 Then with great grief and anguish of heart I wept, and with groaning began to pray:
10 When she heard these things, she was very sorrowful, so she thought to herself, “The Lord has humiliated me; he has taken my husband from me.”
11 At that very time, the prayer of these two supplicants was heard in the glorious presence of Almighty God.
12 “And now deal with me as you will.”
13 And now deal with me as you will.’
14 For I see that I have not kept your commandments and have sinned before you.
15 And now, O Lord, I set my eyes and my face toward you.
16 And now deal with me as you will.”
17 And Raphael was sent to heal the two of them: to scale away the white films of Tobit’s eyes; to give Sarah the daughter of Raguel in marriage to Tobias the son of Tobit, and to bind Asmodeus the evil demon, because Tobias was entitled to possess her.
Tobit 4:1-21: 1 In that day Tobit remembered the money which he had committed to Gabael in Rages of Media,
2 And he said to his son, “When I die, bury me; and do not neglect your mother. Honor her all the days of your life. Do what is pleasing to her, and do not grieve her in anything.
3 And when he had called him, he said, “My son, when I die, bury me. And do not neglect your mother. Honor her all the days of your life. Do what is pleasing to her, and do not grieve her in anything.
4 Remember my son, that she saw many dangers for those who live in the land of the Assyrians.
5 “My son, be mindful of the Lord our God all your days, and do not sin or transgress his commandments. Do righteousness all the days of your life, and do not walk in the ways of wrongdoing.”
6 For if you do what is true, your ways will prosper through your deeds.
7 Give alms from your possessions to all who live uprightly, and do not let your eye begrudge the gift when you make it.
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9 “For almsgiving delivers from death and keeps you from going into the darkness.”
10 For almsgiving delivers from death and keeps you from going into the darkness.
11 “For almsgiving delivers from death and keeps you from going into the darkness.”
12 Beware, my son, of all immorality.
13 “Now therefore, my son, love your brothers, and do not disdain to give your sister in marriage to a man.”
14 Let not the wages of any man, which hath wrought for thee, tarry with thee, but give him it out of hand: for if thou serve God, he will also repay thee: be circumspect my son, in all things thou doest, and be wise in all thy conversation.
15 Do to no one what you yourself dislike.
16 “Take heed, my child, of everything you do, and be disciplined in all your conduct.
17 In those days, when you pray, the Lord will listen to you; when you cry out to him, he will deliver you, and once you have returned from captivity, you will see his mercy.
18 Seek counsel from every wise man, and do not despise any useful advice.
19 Bless the Lord your God always, and ask him that your ways may be straight and your paths and plans may prosper.
20 Bless the Lord your God always, and ask him that your ways may be straight and that all your paths and plans may prosper.
21 Do not fear, my child. We lead a poor life, but we will have many good things if we fear God and avoid all sin and do what is good.
Tobit 5:1-22: 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.
Tobit 6:1-18: 1 As they proceeded on their way they came to the river Tigris, and they camped there.
2 And when the young man went down to wash, a fish leaped out of the river and would have swallowed him.
3 And the angel answered him, “Three days’ journey from here, you will find a man named Raguel, one of our relatives. He has a daughter named Sarah.
4 So the young man did as the angel commanded him and when they had roasted the fish, they ate it. Then they both continued on their way until they came near to Ecbatana.
5 So the young man did as the angel commanded him; when they had roasted the fish, they ate it. Then they both continued on their way until they came near to Ecbatana.
6 And the young man said to the angel, “Brother Azariah, of what use is the heart and the liver and the gallbladder of the fish?”
7 And he said to him, “Take hold of the fish.” So he took hold of the fish, and drew it to the land.
8 And the angel answered and said to him, “I will go with you, and I am the one who knows the way.”
9 And when they had gone out and closed the door of the room and left Tobias alone, she went into him and began to say, “Do not be afraid, my child, for the food you eat is good.
10 Then the angel said to him, “Take out the entrails of this fish, and lay up its heart and its gall and its liver for yourself; for these are necessary for useful medicines.”
11 And the demon, smelling the odor, fled to the remotest parts of Egypt, and the angel bound him.
12 And the demon will smell it and flee, and will never return again.
13 Then the young man said to the angel, “Brother Azariah, of what use is the liver and heart and gall of the fish?”
14 Then the young man said to the angel, “Brother Azariah, of what use is the liver and heart and gall of the fish?”
15 Do not be afraid, for she was set apart for you before the world existed. You will save her, and she will go with you. And I suppose that you will have children by her, and they will be as brothers to you. Go now to your own house this very day, and your father’s estate will be given to you when my wife and I die.
16 And when you enter the wedding chamber, you shall take the fish’s liver and heart, and put them on the embers of the incense, and an odor will be given off.
17 Then the angel said to him, “Do you not remember the words with which your father commanded you to take a wife from among your own people? Now listen to me, brother, for she will become your wife; and do not worry about the demon, for this very night she will be given to you in marriage.
18 Then the angel said to him, “Do you not remember the words with which your father commanded you to take a wife from among your own people? Now listen to me, brother, for she will become your wife; and do not worry about the demon, for this very night she will be given to you in marriage.
Tobit 7:1-17: 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.”
Tobit 8:1-21: 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.
Tobit 9:1-6: 1 Then Tobit called his son Tobias and said to him, “My son, see to the money that I left with Gabael in Media.”
2 And he called his son Tobias, and said to him, “My son, take with you a servant and one of the household of your father, and go to Media.”
3 And he said to him, “Take the gall of the fish with you.” So they went their way, and the young man went on his journey.
4 And he said to him, “Take the gall of the fish with you.” So they went their way, and the young man went on his journey.
5 And now, my son, I will send you to Gabael the son of Gabrias at Rages in Media.
6 And now, my son, I will send you to Gabael the son of Gabrias at Rages in Media.
Tobit 10:1-13: 1 Now Tobit’s son Tobias went in to see his father, and he took with him the gall of the fish.
2 And Tobit said, “I have a son, and he is a good man, and he is a good man, and he is a good man.”
3 And Tobit said to him, “Take me to my son, for I am old and my eyes are dim, and I cannot see.”
4 And now, my son, I am sending you to Gabael the son of Gabrias at Rages in Media.
5 And Tobit said to him, “Take me to my son, for I am old and my eyes are dim, and I cannot see.”
6 And now, my son, I am sending you to Gabael the son of Gabrias at Rages in Media.
7 And now, my son, I am not sure that I will see you again, but I will give you this advice: Do not be afraid to go to the house of your father, for he is in need of you.
8 And now, my son, I am not sure that I will see you again, but I will give you this advice: Take care of your mother and do not let her be sad.
9 And he said to his son, “Take the gall of the fish with you.” So they went their way, and the young man went on his journey, and he took the gall of the fish with him.
10 And Tobit said, “I have a son, and he is a good man; he is a son of my own flesh and blood.”
11 And he said to his son, “Take the gall of the fish with you.” So they went their way, and the young man went on his journey, and he took the gall of the fish with him.
12 And he said to his son, “Take the gall of the fish.” So he took it, and he put it on his eyes, and he said, “I will go to my father.”
13 And now, my son, I am not sure that I will see you again, but I will give you this advice: Do not be afraid to go to the house of your father, for he is a good man.
Tobit 11:1-19: 1 And as they approached Nineveh, Raphael said, “You know how we left your father.
2 And when he saw him, he fell on his neck and wept. And Tobit blessed the Lord God, and said, “Blessed are you, O God of our fathers, and blessed is your holy and glorious name forever. Amen.”
3 And when he had found them safe and sound, he praised God, and those who had rescued his wife.
4 And when he had found them safe and sound, he praised God, and those who had rescued his wife.
5 Then Anna ran to meet him, and embraced him, and said to him, “I have seen you, my son; from now on I am content to die.”
6 And when they had done this, they went and found Tobit sitting in the darkness of the courtyard.
7 And he ran toward his son, and he threw his arms around him and said, “I see you again, my child. I am ready to die!”
8 And Anna ran to meet him and fell on his neck and kissed him.
9 And when they had washed, and anointed themselves, and changed their garments, they sat down to eat.
10 And Tobit went out to meet his daughter-in-law at the gate of Nineveh, rejoicing and praising God.
11 And as they went on their way, they came to the river Tigris, and they lodged there for the night.
12 And Tobit went out to meet his daughter-in-law at the gate of Nineveh, rejoicing and praising God.
13 And when they had finished eating, Raguel ordered his servants to fill the grave before dawn.
14 And he wept, and said, “Blessed are you, O God, and blessed is your name forever. Blessed are all your holy angels, for you have afflicted me.
15 And he wept, and said, Blessed be God, and blessed be his great name, and blessed be all his holy angels.
16 And Tobit went out to meet his daughter-in-law at the gate of Nineveh, rejoicing and praising God.
17 And Raguel arose and gave him Sarah his wife, and half his property, servants, and cattle.
18 And all his neighbors and many of the people of Nineveh came running to the courtyard below the house of Tobit and Anna his wife.
19 And Achiacharus and Nabath, the brothers of Tobit, rejoiced at his safety, and celebrated his return with a feast.
Tobit 12:1-22: 1 So Tobit called his son Tobias and said to him, “My son, see to the wages of the man who went with you, and we must give him more.”
2 “And Tobit said to his son, ‘Honor your father and your mother, so that a blessing may come upon you from them.’”
3 And Tobit said to his son, “Honor your father and your mother, so that a blessing may come upon you from them.”
4 So when the angel went in, he said to them, “Praise God and give thanks to him.”
5 So now, when you and Sarah prayed, it was I who brought and read the record of your prayer before the glory of the Lord, and likewise whenever you would bury the dead.
6 Then they were both troubled, and fell upon their faces: for they feared.
7 It is good to keep close the secret of a king, but it is glorious to reveal the works of God.
8 Prayer is good when accompanied by fasting, almsgiving, and righteousness. A little with righteousness is better than much with wrongdoing. It is better to give alms than to treasure up gold.
9 For almsgiving delivers from death and keeps you from going into the darkness.
10 For almsgiving delivers from death and keeps you from going into the darkness.
11 And they were both troubled; and they fell upon their faces: for they feared.
12 “So now when you and Sarah prayed, it was I who brought and read the record of your prayer before the glory of the Lord, and likewise whenever you buried the dead.”
13 And when you prayed, it was I who brought the remembrance of your prayer before the Holy One; and when you buried the dead, I was with you.
14 And now, God sends me to heal you and your daughter-in-law Sarah.
15 I am Raphael, one of the seven holy angels who present the prayers of the saints and enter into the presence of the glory of the Holy One.”
16 Then they both were troubled, and fell upon their faces: for they feared.
17 It is good to keep close the secret of a king, but it is glorious to reveal the works of God.
18 And now give thanks to God, for I am ascending to him who sent me. Write all that has happened to you.”
19 I am Raphael, one of the seven holy angels who present the prayers of the saints and enter into the presence of the glory of the Holy One.”
20 I am Raphael, one of the seven holy angels who present the prayers of the saints and enter into the presence of the glory of the Holy One.”
21 Fear God, and give him thanks; for he is good, for his mercy endures forever.
22 “You are blessed, O God of our fathers; blessed is your holy and glorious name forever and ever.”
Tobit 13:1-18: 1 And Tobit wrote a prayer of rejoicing, and said: “Blessed be God who lives forever, and blessed be his kingdom.”
2 For he afflicts, and he shows mercy; he leads down to Hades, and brings up again, and there is no one who can escape his hand.
3 Confess him before the Gentiles, the sons of Israel, for he has scattered us among them.
4 There will be no more weeping or cries of distress.
5 He will scatter you among the nations, and you will be left few in number among the nations where the Lord will drive you.
6 If you turn to him with all your heart and with all your soul to do what is true before him, then he will turn to you and will not hide his face from you.
7 And now see that I am the one who is bringing them back, says the Lord.
8 Let all men speak, and let all praise him for his righteousness.
9 Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near;
10 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.
11 Many nations will come from afar to the name of the Lord God, bearing gifts in their hands, gifts for the King of heaven. Generation after generation will give joyful praise in you, and the name of the chosen city will endure forever.
12 “For Jerusalem will be built as his house for all ages to come.”
13 Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion, for behold, I come and I will dwell in your midst, declares the Lord.
14 O Jerusalem, the holy city, he will afflict you for the deeds of your sons, but again he will show mercy to the sons of the righteous.
15 I will rejoice in them and be glad, and I will sanctify them.
16 For Jerusalem will be built as his house for all ages to come.
17 May all the nations praise you forever.
18 And all the people shall turn to the Lord in truth and righteousness.
Tobit 14:1-15: 1 When Tobit was old, he called his son Tobias and said to him, “My son, see to the burial of me, for I am about to die.”
2 And he died in peace, and was buried honorably in Nineveh.
3 And now, my son, I am old, and am ready to depart out of this life; go into Media, and let not your eye be on the treasures of this world, but let your heart be on the fear of God.
4 And now, my son, I am about to die; but I will not be with you any longer.
5 And now, my son, I am about to die; but I will not be with you any longer.
6 And now, my son, I am old, and am going the way of all the earth; and I am not sure how long I will be with you.
7 And now, my children, I am going to my rest; but I will instruct you before I die, so that you may not be grieved.
8 And now, my children, I am about to die; but I will not be with you long.
9 And now, my children, I am about to die; but I will not leave you without a guide.
10 And now, my children, I am going to my rest; but I trust that you will do good and will be mindful of the Lord and will not forget the commandments of the Lord your God.
11 And now, my children, I am about to die; but I pray the Lord that he may have mercy on you and bless you and make you increase in number and may you be gathered to your people.
12 And he died in peace, and was buried in Nineveh with great honor.
13 And now, my children, I am about to die; but I pray the Lord that he may have mercy on you and bless you and make you increase and multiply in the land.
14 And he died in peace, and was buried in Nineveh with great honor.
15 And he died in peace, and was buried honorably in Nineveh.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.