Tobit 11:5 - Anna sat looking around toward the path for her son.

Generated Verse: Tobit 11:5

What does "Tobit 11:5" mean?


Tobit 11:5, "Anna sat looking around toward the path for her son," paints a picture of anticipation, hope, and maternal longing. Let's break down the meaning:

Anna: Anna is Tobit's wife and Tobiah's mother. She is the heart of the family, deeply devoted to her husband and son.
Sat looking around toward the path: This describes her physical posture and action. "Sitting" implies a long wait, perhaps even fatigue and exhaustion. "Looking around toward the path" reveals her intense focus and vigilance. She's not merely glancing, but actively searching and watching. The "path" is significant because it represents the likely route her son Tobiah would take returning home.
For her son: This is the crux of the verse. Everything Anna is doing is motivated by her love and concern for her son, Tobiah. He's been gone on a long and dangerous journey to retrieve money for the family, and his return is of paramount importance to her.

Here's a deeper interpretation:

Hope and Fear: Anna's watchfulness highlights the dual emotions of hope and fear. She hopes her son will return safe and sound, but she also fears for his well-being, given the dangers of travel and the unknown perils he may have faced.
Patient Endurance: The act of sitting and waiting indicates Anna's patient endurance. She's been waiting for a long time, likely days or weeks, and her unwavering hope is evident in her continued vigil.
Family Unity: The verse emphasizes the importance of family bonds and the deep connection between mother and son. Anna's longing for her son reflects the love and concern that hold the family together.
Theme of Divine Providence: In the broader context of the Book of Tobit, Anna's anxious wait also underscores the theme of divine providence. While she waits and hopes, God is working behind the scenes to ensure Tobiah's safe return and the fulfillment of his plans for the family.

In essence, Tobit 11:5 is a poignant depiction of a mother's love, unwavering hope, and anxious anticipation for the safe return of her son after a long and perilous journey. It sets the stage for the joyful reunion that follows.

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