TobitChapter 4

Tobit Chapter 4: Meaning

Tobit gives his son Tobias wise advice about how to live a good life before sending him on a trip.

Summary

Tobit remembered that he had left money with a man named Gabael in Media, long before he went blind. Since he thought he might die soon, he decided to tell his son Tobias about the money and give him life advice before it was too late.

Tobit told Tobias to honor his mother all her life and bury her properly when she died. He told him to think about God every day, live honestly, and never do anything wicked. He reminded him that doing good things leads to a good life, and that doing wrong leads to ruin.

Tobit also gave very practical advice. He told Tobias to give to the poor, to treat others the way he would want to be treated, and to pay workers right away without making them wait. He said not to be proud, not to eat with sinners, and to always give thanks to God. Tobit explained that giving to those in need is like storing up treasure for hard times, and that it can even rescue a person from death.

Finally, Tobit told Tobias about the money with Gabael. He reminded him that being poor was nothing to be ashamed of, as long as he feared God and lived honestly.

Historical Context

In the ancient world, it was common for a father to give his children important life lessons before he died. This was called a farewell speech or testament. Tobit's advice matches many of the teachings found in books like Proverbs and Sirach.

The idea of giving to the poor as a kind of spiritual treasure was widely taught in Jewish tradition. It was also important to take care of widows, orphans, and strangers, people who had no one to protect them.