Tobit 12:11 - Surely I will keep nothing closed from you. I have said, ‘It is good to keep close the secret of a king, but to reveal gloriously the works of God.’
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What does "Tobit 12:11" mean?
This verse from Tobit 12:11 (NABRE) is part of Raphael's revelation to Tobit and Tobias about his true nature as an angel. Let's break it down:
"Surely I will keep nothing closed from you." This signifies Raphael's intention to be completely honest and transparent with Tobit and Tobias. He's about to reveal information that was previously hidden, specifically his angelic identity and the divine purpose behind his assistance.
"I have said, ‘It is good to keep close the secret of a king, but to reveal gloriously the works of God.’" This is the core of the verse and presents a contrasting principle:
"It is good to keep close the secret of a king..." This reflects a common understanding in ancient times (and even today) that kings and rulers often have information that is best kept confidential for the sake of governance, security, or diplomacy. Revealing such secrets could be harmful.
"...but to reveal gloriously the works of God." This is the key counterpoint. The "works of God" refer to God's actions, interventions, and blessings. These should not be kept secret but should be proclaimed and celebrated. Revealing them gloriously means to share them openly and with praise, allowing others to witness God's power and goodness.
In context, Raphael is saying:
While there is wisdom in keeping certain secular secrets, the miraculous workings of God should be shared and celebrated.
He's about to reveal God's work in their lives (through his own actions as an angel), which is more important to share than any worldly secret.
He is essentially justifying his upcoming revelation by stating that it is a divine work, and divine works should be made known so that God's glory is magnified.
In short, the verse highlights the importance of sharing God's acts of kindness and intervention in our lives to inspire faith and glorify God, in contrast to the wisdom of keeping earthly secrets. It's about prioritizing the proclamation of God's glory over worldly concerns.
Tobit 12:11 - Surely I will keep nothing closed from you. I have said, ‘It is good to keep close the secret of a king, but to reveal gloriously the works of God.’
What does "Tobit 12:11" mean?
This verse from Tobit 12:11 (NABRE) is part of Raphael's revelation to Tobit and Tobias about his true nature as an angel. Let's break it down:
"Surely I will keep nothing closed from you." This signifies Raphael's intention to be completely honest and transparent with Tobit and Tobias. He's about to reveal information that was previously hidden, specifically his angelic identity and the divine purpose behind his assistance.
"I have said, ‘It is good to keep close the secret of a king, but to reveal gloriously the works of God.’" This is the core of the verse and presents a contrasting principle:
"It is good to keep close the secret of a king..." This reflects a common understanding in ancient times (and even today) that kings and rulers often have information that is best kept confidential for the sake of governance, security, or diplomacy. Revealing such secrets could be harmful.
"...but to reveal gloriously the works of God." This is the key counterpoint. The "works of God" refer to God's actions, interventions, and blessings. These should not be kept secret but should be proclaimed and celebrated. Revealing them gloriously means to share them openly and with praise, allowing others to witness God's power and goodness.
In context, Raphael is saying:
While there is wisdom in keeping certain secular secrets, the miraculous workings of God should be shared and celebrated.
He's about to reveal God's work in their lives (through his own actions as an angel), which is more important to share than any worldly secret.
He is essentially justifying his upcoming revelation by stating that it is a divine work, and divine works should be made known so that God's glory is magnified.
In short, the verse highlights the importance of sharing God's acts of kindness and intervention in our lives to inspire faith and glorify God, in contrast to the wisdom of keeping earthly secrets. It's about prioritizing the proclamation of God's glory over worldly concerns.