What is the book of Tobit about?

The Book of Tobit, also known as the Book of Tobias, is a fascinating narrative found in the Apocrypha, which is included in the canon of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches but not in the Hebrew Bible or most Protestant Bibles. Although it is not part of the canonical Old Testament for many Christians, it holds significant historical, theological, and moral value. The story is set in the 8th century BCE during the Assyrian captivity of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, yet it was likely written somewhere between the 3rd and 2nd centuries BCE. It offers a rich tapestry of themes such as piety, charity, divine providence, and the interplay between human and heavenly agents.

The book opens with the introduction of Tobit, a devout and righteous Israelite living in Nineveh after being exiled from his homeland. Tobit is characterized by his adherence to the Mosaic Law, his acts of charity, and his dedication to burying the dead, which was a significant act of mercy and piety in his time. Despite his faithfulness, Tobit faces severe trials, including blindness caused by bird droppings falling into his eyes and financial hardship. His plight reflects the broader theme of righteous suffering, reminiscent of Job's trials in the Old Testament.

Tobit’s son, Tobias, becomes a central figure in the narrative. Tobit, aware of his impending death and concerned about his family's future, sends Tobias on a journey to Media to retrieve a sum of money he had deposited with a relative. This journey is not merely a physical one but also a spiritual quest, laden with divine intervention and guidance. The angel Raphael, disguised as a human named Azariah, accompanies Tobias. Raphael's role underscores the belief in divine providence and angelic assistance, themes that resonate throughout the book.

During his journey, Tobias encounters Sarah, a woman plagued by a demon named Asmodeus, who has killed her seven previous husbands on their wedding night. Sarah’s despair is palpable as she contemplates suicide, but divine intervention prevents her from taking her life. This encounter highlights the book’s exploration of human suffering and divine compassion. The angel Raphael instructs Tobias on how to dispel the demon using the heart and liver of a fish, which he catches in the Tigris River. The successful exorcism and subsequent marriage of Tobias and Sarah signify the triumph of faith and divine assistance over evil and despair.

The narrative also delves into the theme of family and obedience. Tobias' respect for his father and his adherence to Raphael’s guidance reflect the importance of familial duty and divine obedience. Upon returning home, Tobias uses the gall of the same fish to cure his father's blindness, symbolizing the restoration of sight and insight, both physically and spiritually. Tobit’s eventual recovery and the family's reunion encapsulate the overarching message of hope, redemption, and divine justice.

The Book of Tobit is rich in theological symbolism and moral instruction. It emphasizes the virtues of almsgiving, prayer, and fasting, which are seen as means of attaining divine favor and protection. Tobit’s acts of charity, even in the face of personal adversity, are particularly noteworthy. The narrative suggests that such acts are not only beneficial to others but also accrue spiritual merit for the giver. This aligns with the broader scriptural admonition found in Proverbs 19:17, "Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done."

Moreover, the book addresses the theme of divine providence. The seemingly coincidental events—Tobias meeting Sarah, the presence of the angel Raphael, and the healing properties of the fish—are portrayed as orchestrated by God. This reflects a worldview where God is actively involved in the lives of the faithful, guiding and protecting them even when His hand is not immediately visible. This theme is echoed in Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

The Book of Tobit also contributes to the understanding of angelology within the Judeo-Christian tradition. Raphael’s role as a guide and healer provides a tangible example of angelic intervention in human affairs. This aligns with other scriptural references to angels as messengers and protectors, such as in Psalm 91:11, "For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways."

In addition to its theological themes, the Book of Tobit offers insights into the cultural and social practices of the Jewish diaspora. The emphasis on burial rites, marriage customs, and the importance of kinship ties provides a window into the lived experiences of Jews in exile. It also underscores the resilience of Jewish identity and faith in the face of external pressures and internal challenges.

While the Book of Tobit is not universally accepted within the Protestant canon, its themes and messages resonate with the broader biblical narrative. It reinforces the principles of faith, charity, and divine providence that are central to the Christian life. The story of Tobit and Tobias serves as a reminder that righteousness and faithfulness, even in the face of suffering, are met with divine compassion and intervention.

In summary, the Book of Tobit is a rich, multi-layered narrative that offers profound insights into the nature of faith, suffering, and divine providence. It is a story that, while set in a specific historical and cultural context, speaks to universal themes of human experience and divine interaction. Through its vivid characters and compelling plot, it invites readers to reflect on their own faith journey, the importance of charity, and the ever-present hand of God in their lives.