Tobit 11:8 - Therefore anoint his eyes with the gall, and being pricked therewith, he will rub, and willl make the white films fall away. Then he will see you.”

Generated Verse: Tobit 11:8

What does "Tobit 11:8" mean?


This verse describes the healing of Tobit's blindness, a key event in the Book of Tobit. Let's break it down:

"Therefore anoint his eyes with the gall..." The "gall" here refers to the gall bladder of a fish that Tobiah (Tobit's son) had caught earlier in the story. This isn't literal bile in the modern sense, but rather some medicinal substance extracted from the fish's organ. The angel Raphael instructs Tobiah to apply it to Tobit's eyes.

"...and being pricked therewith, he will rub..." This suggests that applying the gall will cause a stinging or prickling sensation in Tobit's eyes. He will instinctively rub them because of this.

"...and will make the white films fall away." The "white films" are understood to be cataracts or some similar condition that caused Tobit's blindness. The rubbing action, combined with the properties of the gall, will cause these films to be removed or dissipated.

"Then he will see you.” This is the result of the treatment. Once the films are gone, Tobit's vision will be restored, and he will be able to see his son Tobiah, who has returned after a long journey.

In Essence:

The verse describes a miraculous healing. Tobiah, following the angel Raphael's instructions, uses fish gall as a remedy. It's not just the application, but the subsequent rubbing action that removes the cause of Tobit's blindness, restoring his sight.

Significance:

Divine Intervention: The healing is presented as an act of God, facilitated by the angel Raphael.
Restoration: It's a moment of joy and relief, restoring Tobit's independence and connection to his family.
Faith: The story emphasizes the importance of faith and obedience to God's will.
Symbolism: Some interpretations see the gall as a symbol of bitterness or suffering, which ultimately leads to healing and renewal.

This verse is a crucial turning point in the Book of Tobit, marking the end of Tobit's suffering and the beginning of a new chapter filled with joy and thanksgiving.

What categories does "Tobit 11:8" have?