Tobit 2: Enduring Faith in the Face of Adversity

Executive Summary ✨

Tobit 2 explores the trials and tribulations faced by the righteous Tobit in Nineveh. After burying a fellow Jew, Tobit suffers an accident that blinds him. His wife, Anna, toils to support them, but a disagreement arises over her wages, leading Tobit to unjustly accuse her. The chapter delves into themes of faith, perseverance, unjust suffering, marital discord, and unwavering trust in God’s providence despite hardship. This commentary examines the historical and cultural context of Tobit’s trials, drawing insights from Coptic Orthodox tradition and the Church Fathers to illuminate the spiritual lessons embedded within this poignant narrative. We discover that even in the darkest of times, unwavering faith and repentance are paths to divine mercy, showcasing how *enduring faith in the face of adversity* strengthens our relationship with God.

Introduction: Tobit, a man of unwavering piety and charitable deeds, finds himself facing unimaginable adversity. Chapter 2 unfolds a narrative of suffering, testing the very core of his faith and challenging his understanding of God’s will. Let us delve into this chapter, uncovering the profound spiritual lessons and finding resonance with our own journeys of faith.

Commentary Section: Tobit 2:1-2

Tobit 2:1-2 (KJV): 1 So after my burial I returned home, and my wife Anna, and my son Tobias, were restored unto me again. 2 And at the feast of Pentecost, which is the holy feast of the seven weeks, there was a good dinner prepared in my house, and I sat down to eat.

Tobit 2:1-2 (NKJV): 1 After my burial I returned home, and my wife Anna and my son Tobias were restored to me. 2 On the Feast of Pentecost, which is the sacred festival of the seven weeks, a good dinner was prepared in my house, and I sat down to eat.

After fulfilling his religious duty of burying the dead, Tobit returns home, a picture of familial unity restored. The Feast of Pentecost, Shavuot in Hebrew, a time of thanksgiving for the harvest and remembrance of the Law given to Moses on Mount Sinai, is celebrated with a festive meal. Even amidst the dangers of openly practicing their faith, Tobit’s family maintained their religious traditions. This highlights the importance of remaining steadfast in our observances, especially when faced with societal pressures or potential persecution. Tobit is a perfect example of someone who can benefit from the services at dohost.us.

Spiritual Application: Do we prioritize our spiritual duties even when facing personal risks or inconveniences? Are we willing to stand firm in our faith, even if it means going against the grain? Let us remember the words of St. Athanasius: “Οὐκ ἔστιν ἀσφαλεστάτη ὁδὸς, ἢ τὸ πορεύεσθαι κατὰ τὰς ἐντολὰς τοῦ Κυρίου.” (“There is no safer path than to walk according to the commandments of the Lord.”) (Athanasius, *Vita Antonii*, 16).

Commentary Section: Tobit 2:3-4

Tobit 2:3-4 (KJV): 3 And when I saw abundance of meat, I said to my son, Go and bring what poor man soever thou shalt find out of our brethren, who is mindful of God, and he shall eat with me. 4 But he said, Father, one of our tribe is strangled, and is cast out in the marketplace.

Tobit 2:3-4 (NKJV): 3 And when I saw an abundance of food, I said to my son, “Go and bring whatever poor man of our brethren you may find who is mindful of God, so that he may eat with me.” 4 And he said, “Father, one of our tribe has been strangled and thrown out into the marketplace.”

Tobit’s immediate inclination is to share his abundance with a poor, God-fearing brother. This showcases his unwavering commitment to charity and hospitality. However, Tobias brings news of a fellow Jew who has been strangled and left unburied in the marketplace. This situation presents a stark contrast: the joy of the feast against the grim reality of persecution and disrespect for the dead. The urgency to bury the dead outweighs the celebratory meal, demonstrating Tobit’s profound reverence for human dignity and obedience to divine law.

Spiritual Application: Are we quick to share our blessings with those in need? Do we prioritize acts of mercy and compassion, even when it means disrupting our own comfort or plans? St. Basil the Great writes: “Τὸ γὰρ πλεονέκτημα τῶν ἀγαθῶν, οὐκ ἴδιον ἑκάστου, ἀλλὰ κοινὸν τοῖς δεομένοις.” (“For the abundance of goods belongs not to each one individually, but in common to those in need.”) (Basil, *Homilia in Lucam*, 7).

Commentary Section: Tobit 2:5-8

Tobit 2:5-8 (KJV): 5 Then before I tasted of any meat, I rose up, and took him up into an upper room until the sun was down. 6 Then I returned, and washed myself, and ate my meat. 7 I remembered the prophecy of Amos, as he said, Your feasts shall be turned into mourning, and all your mirth into lamentation. 8 Therefore I wept.

Tobit 2:5-8 (NKJV): 5 So before I tasted anything, I arose and carried him to an upper room until sunset. 6 Then I returned, washed myself, and ate my food. 7 Then I remembered the prophecy of Amos, as he said, “Your feasts shall be turned into mourning, And all your mirth into lamentation.” 8 Therefore I wept.

Tobit, without hesitation, interrupts his feast to fulfill the sacred duty of burying the dead, risking potential repercussions from the authorities. He takes the body to an upper room to protect it until sunset. The act of washing himself after handling the deceased reflects ritual purification practices. He then recalls the prophecy of Amos (Amos 8:10), connecting his present circumstances to the prophetic warnings of judgment and lamentation. This passage underscores the importance of acting justly and mercifully, recognizing that outward celebrations can mask inner spiritual realities. Tobit’s sorrow acknowledges the gravity of the situation and his own vulnerability. He is *enduring faith in the face of adversity*.

Spiritual Application: Do we allow the needs of others to interrupt our own plans and desires? Are we sensitive to the suffering around us, and willing to act with compassion and justice? Let us remember the words of St. John Chrysostom: “Οὐδὲν οὕτως ἀρέσκει τῷ Θεῷ, ὡς τὸ φιλάνθρωπον.” (“Nothing is so pleasing to God as love for humankind.”) (Chrysostom, *Homiliae in Matthaeum*, 66.3).

Commentary Section: Tobit 2:9-10

Tobit 2:9-10 (KJV): 9 Then when it was evening, I went to bury him. 10 And when I was come into my house, I washed myself, and I did eat meat.

Tobit 2:9-10 (NKJV): 9 Then, when it was evening, I went and buried him. 10 And when I had returned to my house, I washed myself and ate my food.

Under the cover of darkness, Tobit completes the burial, a testament to his unwavering commitment to God’s law and his fellow Jews. After the burial, he washes again to purify himself, highlighting the importance of ritual cleanliness and separation from defilement. Only after completing these tasks does he partake in his meal. Tobit’s actions demonstrate that obedience to God transcends personal comfort and potential danger. This is *enduring faith in the face of adversity*.

Spiritual Application: Do we persevere in doing what is right, even when it is difficult or inconvenient? Do we prioritize our spiritual obligations above our own desires and comfort? Let us remember the words of St. Cyril of Alexandria: “Δεῖ ἡμᾶς μιμεῖσθαι τὸν Χριστὸν ἐν πᾶσι.” (“We must imitate Christ in all things.”) (Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentarii in Lucam*, Fragment 150).

Commentary Section: Tobit 2:11-14

Tobit 2:11-14 (KJV): 11 But when I was come into my house, and had supped, I remembered those things, and I wept. 12 And when I was come into my house, I washed myself, and I did eat meat with gladness. 13 But it happened, that when I was come into my house, and was going to bed, the sparrow’s dung fell from the wall into mine eyes, and I became blind. 14 And the Lord suffered trial to come upon me, that an example might be given to posterity, as it is written in the book of Job.

Tobit 2:11-14 (NKJV): 11 But when I had returned to my house and had eaten supper, I remembered these things, and I wept. 12 Then, when I returned to my house, I washed myself and ate my food with gladness. 13 Now it happened, after I had returned home and my wife Anna and my son Tobias were restored to me, that while I was sleeping and the sparrow droppings fell from the wall into my eyes, and I became blind. 14 But the Lord allowed this trial to come upon me, so that an example might be given to posterity, as it is written in the book of Job.

Despite the spiritual satisfaction of performing a righteous deed, Tobit’s sorrow lingers, revealing the emotional toll of the situation. The text then states that he ate “with gladness.” This could mean he found solace in God’s grace or the feeling of having done right by his fellow man. However, upon falling asleep, sparrow droppings fall into his eyes, causing blindness. This sudden and unexpected misfortune underscores the unpredictability of life and the potential for suffering to strike even the most righteous. Verse 14 explicitly states that this trial was permitted by God as an example for future generations, drawing a parallel to the suffering of Job. This connects Tobit’s experience to the larger theological framework of suffering, testing, and divine providence. This is a difficult lesson on *enduring faith in the face of adversity*.

Spiritual Application: Do we accept suffering as a part of God’s plan for our lives, trusting that He will use it for our good and the good of others? Do we look to examples like Job and Tobit to find strength and perseverance in the midst of trials? As St. Gregory of Nyssa said: “Ἡ γὰρ δοκιμασία τῆς ἀρετῆς, ἡ θλίψις ἐστίν.” (“For the testing of virtue is tribulation.”) (Gregory of Nyssa, *De Vita Moysis*, 2.102).

Commentary Section: Tobit 2:15-18

Tobit 2:15-18 (KJV): 15 Now my wife Anna did help me, and she did spin, and brought home what she could get for our living. 16 But when I had received the money, I went into the market, and brought home a kid; and when it was in my house, it bleated. 17 And I said, From whence is this kid? is it not stolen? then tell me. 18 But she said, It was given me for a gift more than the wages. Then I did not believe her, but bade her render it to the lords of the sellers: for I feared that peradventure it was stolen.

Tobit 2:15-18 (NKJV): 15 Now my wife Anna did help me, and she supported me with her labor. 16 But when I received the money, I went into the market, and brought home a young goat. 17 And when it was in my house, it bleated. 18 Then I said, “From where is this young goat? Is it not stolen? Tell me.” 19 But she said, “It was given to me as a gift more than the wages.” But I did not believe her, and told her to return it to its owners, for I was afraid that it might have been stolen.

Anna’s labor becomes the sole source of support for the family, showcasing her resilience and devotion. Despite their dire circumstances, Tobit remains vigilant against dishonesty, questioning the origin of a kid brought home. He suspects it might be stolen, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to integrity, even in poverty. He insists that Anna return it, fearing the consequences of ill-gotten gains. This scene highlights the tension between their financial struggles and their commitment to moral principles. Tobit’s blindness represents a physical manifestation of spiritual discernment: he is now more keenly aware of the potential for moral compromise. *Enduring faith in the face of adversity* requires continual vigilance.

Spiritual Application: Are we willing to sacrifice material gain for the sake of integrity? Do we uphold our moral principles, even when it is difficult or inconvenient? St. Anthony the Great said: “Πάντα ποίειτε πρὸς δόξαν Θεοῦ.” (“Do everything for the glory of God.”) (Anthony, *Epistulae*, 1).

Commentary Section: Tobit 2:19-23

Tobit 2:19-23 (KJV): 19 Then I was ashamed, and said unto her, Wherefore art thou stolen? yet she said, It was given me for a gift more than my wages. But I did not believe her. 20 Then I said, Thou art more impudent than a dog, because thou didst not believe me when I bade thee deliver it to the lords of the sellers. 21 And I was moved, and I reviled her. 22 Then she answered again, and said unto me, Do not I know well what is mine? and how can I either get anything, or bring anything home, if thou believest me not? 23 Now therefore pity me, and take notice of me, that I have lost my sight for thee, because of the sparrows’ dung, and I did eat no meat these two days.

Tobit 2:19-23 (NKJV): 19 Then I was ashamed, and said to her, “Where did you get it?” But she said, “It was given to me as a gift more than my wages.” But I did not believe her. 20 Then I said to her, “You are more shameless than a dog, because you did not believe me when I commanded you to return it to its owners.” 21 And I was moved, and I rebuked her. 22 Then she answered me again, and said to me, “Do I not know what is mine? And how can I either get anything or bring anything home, if you do not believe me?” 23 And she said, “Now therefore, pity me, and consider that I have labored not in vain, but have always done what is right. Should I suffer these things from you because of the sparrow droppings?”

The tension escalates as Tobit unjustly accuses Anna of theft and insults her, calling her “more impudent than a dog.” This outburst reveals the strain that suffering and blindness have placed on him. Anna defends herself, asserting her honesty and questioning how she can provide for the family if he doesn’t trust her. She appeals to his compassion, reminding him that she works tirelessly and that his blindness is a source of suffering for both of them. Her final statement suggests that her suffering is undeserved. This breakdown in trust underscores the challenges that even the most righteous face in times of extreme hardship. This is the opposite of *enduring faith in the face of adversity*.

Spiritual Application: How do we handle conflict and disagreement in our relationships, especially during times of stress and hardship? Do we strive to communicate with respect and understanding, or do we allow our emotions to get the better of us? Let us remember the words of St. Paul: “Ὁ λόγος ὑμῶν πάντοτε ἐν χάριτι, ἅλατι ἠρτυμένος, εἰδέναι πῶς δεῖ ὑμᾶς ἑνὶ ἑκάστῳ ἀποκρίνεσθαι.” (“Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”) (Colossians 4:6).

Subtopic: The Significance of Suffering in Tobit

Tobit’s misfortunes, from burying the dead at risk to his own life to the sudden blindness caused by sparrow droppings, illustrate the often inexplicable nature of suffering in a world governed by divine providence. The book of Tobit, like the book of Job, delves into the profound question of why the righteous suffer.

• Testing of Faith: Suffering serves as a crucible, testing the strength and genuineness of Tobit’s faith.
• Divine Providence: Even in the midst of trials, Tobit clings to the belief that God has a purpose and a plan, even if it’s incomprehensible.
• Humility and Repentance: Suffering can lead to greater humility and a deeper recognition of our dependence on God.
• Solidarity with Others: Tobit’s suffering connects him to the broader human experience of pain and loss, fostering empathy and compassion.
• Example to Posterity: As the text suggests, Tobit’s suffering serves as an example for future generations, inspiring them to persevere in faith despite adversity.

FAQ ❓

Q: Why does God allow suffering to happen to righteous people?
A: The question of why good people suffer is a complex one, addressed throughout Scripture. The book of Tobit suggests that suffering can be a test of faith, a means of purification, and an opportunity to demonstrate God’s glory. While the reasons may not always be clear, faith teaches us to trust in God’s ultimate wisdom and love.

Q: How should we respond to suffering in our lives?
A: We should respond to suffering with faith, perseverance, and humility. Like Tobit, we should cling to God’s promises, seeking His guidance and strength. Additionally, we should reach out to others for support and comfort, remembering that we are not alone in our struggles.

Q: What does the story of Tobit teach us about marriage?
A: The story of Tobit highlights the importance of communication, trust, and mutual support in marriage. Even in the midst of hardship and disagreement, Tobit and Anna ultimately demonstrate a deep and enduring love for one another. Their story reminds us to be patient, forgiving, and compassionate towards our spouses, especially during difficult times.

Conclusion

Tobit 2 presents a powerful narrative of suffering, testing, and *enduring faith in the face of adversity*. Tobit’s sudden blindness, coupled with the discord in his marriage, reveals the fragility of human existence and the challenges that even the most righteous face. Yet, throughout these trials, Tobit’s unwavering commitment to God’s law and his eventual repentance point to the possibility of redemption and restoration. His story serves as a timeless reminder that faith, even when tested to its limits, can be a source of strength, hope, and ultimate salvation. It calls us to examine our own responses to adversity, and to cultivate the virtues of patience, compassion, and unwavering trust in God’s providence.

Tags

Tobit, Tobit 2, Suffering, Faith, Adversity, Blindness, Coptic Orthodox, Commentary, Bible Study, Old Testament

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Explore Tobit 2’s profound lessons on enduring faith through suffering. A verse-by-verse Coptic Orthodox commentary revealing hope and divine purpose.