Tobit 1:8 - A third tenth I gave to them to whom it was appropriate, as Deborah my father’s mother had commanded me, because I was left an orphan by my father.
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What does "Tobit 1:8" mean?
This verse from Tobit 1:8 describes a specific practice of giving tithes within a Jewish context, highlighting the unique circumstances of Tobit's life. Let's break it down:
"A third tenth I gave...": Jewish law mandated giving tithes (10% of agricultural produce) to the Levites and priests. However, in addition to the standard tithes, Tobit describes giving an additional tenth – a "third tenth." This implies a second tithe existed that he did not give. The second tithe was to be eaten by the person giving it within Jerusalem, or a substitute for it if he lived far away. Instead of eating the second tithe or giving it to the poor, Tobit gave it to his relatives.
"...to them to whom it was appropriate...": This suggests Tobit was selective in who he gave the "third tenth" to. He likely gave it to people in need or to individuals he felt deserved assistance. It emphasizes his discretionary role in distributing the funds.
"...as Deborah my father’s mother had commanded me...": Deborah, Tobit's paternal grandmother, played a significant role in his upbringing and instilled in him a commitment to giving and righteousness. This "command" wasn't necessarily a formal religious law but a personal instruction or tradition within the family. This highlights the importance of family traditions in shaping Tobit's behavior.
"...because I was left an orphan by my father.": This is the crucial element explaining why Tobit was giving an additional tenth. Being orphaned, he likely faced hardship and dependence on the kindness of others. He was not to keep the second tithe for himself, but to give it to those in need. This act of generosity could be interpreted as:
Fulfilling a responsibility: As an orphan, he felt a heightened duty to care for others, perhaps mirroring the care he himself had received.
Seeking divine favor: By giving generously, he may have hoped for God's continued protection and blessing, especially given his vulnerable status as an orphan.
Honoring his grandmother's wishes: He wanted to honor his grandmother Deborah.
In summary:
Tobit 1:8 reveals Tobit's exceptional commitment to giving, going beyond the standard religious tithes. His generosity was motivated by family tradition and his own experience as an orphan, highlighting the interconnectedness of personal hardship, religious obligation, and familial values in his life. This verse sets the stage for understanding Tobit's character as a righteous and compassionate individual.
The giving of the tithe is a testament to Tobit's piety and concern for his less fortunate relatives. This highlights themes of righteous behavior, family loyalty, and the importance of adhering to tradition.
Tobit 1:8 - A third tenth I gave to them to whom it was appropriate, as Deborah my father’s mother had commanded me, because I was left an orphan by my father.
What does "Tobit 1:8" mean?
This verse from Tobit 1:8 describes a specific practice of giving tithes within a Jewish context, highlighting the unique circumstances of Tobit's life. Let's break it down:
"A third tenth I gave...": Jewish law mandated giving tithes (10% of agricultural produce) to the Levites and priests. However, in addition to the standard tithes, Tobit describes giving an additional tenth – a "third tenth." This implies a second tithe existed that he did not give. The second tithe was to be eaten by the person giving it within Jerusalem, or a substitute for it if he lived far away. Instead of eating the second tithe or giving it to the poor, Tobit gave it to his relatives.
"...to them to whom it was appropriate...": This suggests Tobit was selective in who he gave the "third tenth" to. He likely gave it to people in need or to individuals he felt deserved assistance. It emphasizes his discretionary role in distributing the funds.
"...as Deborah my father’s mother had commanded me...": Deborah, Tobit's paternal grandmother, played a significant role in his upbringing and instilled in him a commitment to giving and righteousness. This "command" wasn't necessarily a formal religious law but a personal instruction or tradition within the family. This highlights the importance of family traditions in shaping Tobit's behavior.
"...because I was left an orphan by my father.": This is the crucial element explaining why Tobit was giving an additional tenth. Being orphaned, he likely faced hardship and dependence on the kindness of others. He was not to keep the second tithe for himself, but to give it to those in need. This act of generosity could be interpreted as:
Fulfilling a responsibility: As an orphan, he felt a heightened duty to care for others, perhaps mirroring the care he himself had received.
Seeking divine favor: By giving generously, he may have hoped for God's continued protection and blessing, especially given his vulnerable status as an orphan.
Honoring his grandmother's wishes: He wanted to honor his grandmother Deborah.
In summary:
Tobit 1:8 reveals Tobit's exceptional commitment to giving, going beyond the standard religious tithes. His generosity was motivated by family tradition and his own experience as an orphan, highlighting the interconnectedness of personal hardship, religious obligation, and familial values in his life. This verse sets the stage for understanding Tobit's character as a righteous and compassionate individual.
The giving of the tithe is a testament to Tobit's piety and concern for his less fortunate relatives. This highlights themes of righteous behavior, family loyalty, and the importance of adhering to tradition.