Tobit 1:21 - No more than fifty five days passed before two of his sons killed him, and they fled into the mountains of Ararat. And Sarchedonus his son reigned in his place; and he appointed Achiacharus my brother Anael’s son over all the accounts of his kingdom, and over all his affairs.

Generated Verse: Tobit 1:21

What does "Tobit 1:21" mean?


This verse from Tobit 1:21 describes the violent and rapid succession of kings in the Assyrian kingdom. Let's break it down:

"No more than fifty five days passed before two of his sons killed him..." This refers to Sennacherib, the king of Assyria mentioned earlier in the Book of Tobit. It indicates a short timeframe between his rule and his assassination by his own sons. This highlights the instability and treachery within the royal family.

"...and they fled into the mountains of Ararat." This tells us that the sons who committed the regicide (killing of a king) sought refuge in the mountainous region of Ararat (modern-day eastern Turkey), a place of remote and difficult terrain, likely to escape retribution for their crime.

"And Sarchedonus his son reigned in his place..." This introduces Esarhaddon (a common variant of the name Sarchedonus), another son of Sennacherib, who succeeds to the throne despite his brothers' actions. This suggests Esarhaddon was not involved in the assassination or that he managed to seize power afterward.

"...and he appointed Achiacharus my brother Anael’s son over all the accounts of his kingdom, and over all his affairs." This part is significant for the Book of Tobit because it introduces Achiacharus, a prominent and important figure.

"Achiacharus my brother Anael's son..." This establishes Achiacharus's relationship to Tobit. He is Tobit's nephew, making him a close family member. The phrase also highlights that they are from the same tribe, implying a relationship based on kinship ties.
"...over all the accounts of his kingdom, and over all his affairs." This indicates that Esarhaddon appointed Achiacharus to a very high position, effectively making him the chief administrator or vizier of the kingdom. Achiacharus had immense power and influence in the kingdom. The phrase highlights that Tobit's family member is in a good position to care for Tobit.

In summary, the verse describes:

A quick and violent transition of power in Assyria.
The assassination of King Sennacherib by his sons.
The ascension of Esarhaddon to the throne.
The appointment of Tobit's nephew, Achiacharus, to a position of great power and influence.

This verse is important because it sets the stage for Achiacharus's role in the Book of Tobit. Achiacharus's high status allows him to potentially assist Tobit and plays a crucial role in the narrative that follows. This also means that Achiacharus might be able to help Tobit when he has trouble with the King.

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