This verse from Tobit 14:11 is a powerful concluding statement, both in terms of moral instruction and the patriarch's passing. Let's break it down:
"And now, my children, consider what alms does, and how righteousness delivers." This is the core message.
"Alms does": This refers to the practice of giving generously to the poor and needy. The book of Tobit emphasizes the importance of almsgiving, suggesting it has tangible benefits and can atone for sins (see Tobit 4:10-11). It implies that almsgiving brings blessings and protection.
"Righteousness delivers": Righteousness encompasses a broad range of morally upright behaviors, including honesty, integrity, following God's law, and treating others justly. The verse suggests that living a righteous life offers salvation and rescue from hardship or even death. This isn't necessarily a promise of physical immortality, but more likely a spiritual and eternal reward.
Together, these phrases highlight the importance of both charitable actions and moral conduct. They are presented as a legacy and parting advice to his children, urging them to continue these practices. Alms and righteousness are presented as intertwined and vital for a fulfilling and protected life.
"While he was saying these things, he gave up the ghost in the bed; but he was one hundred fifty eight years old." This describes Tobit's death.
"Gave up the ghost": This is an archaic way of saying he died.
"One hundred fifty eight years old": This emphasizes his long life, which is likely intended to be viewed as a blessing and a testament to the wisdom and righteousness of his life. (People living to such an old age is common in this and other books of the Apocrypha.)
"Tobias buried him magnificently." This describes the final act of respect shown to Tobit by his son. The "magnificent" burial suggests a funeral of great honor and expense, reflecting the family's respect and love for Tobit, and likely his social standing.
In Summary:
The verse serves as a concise moral lesson from a dying patriarch to his children, urging them to practice almsgiving and righteousness. It links these actions to deliverance and blessings. The fact that Tobit dies peacefully in old age while delivering this message reinforces the idea that he lived a blessed life as a result of these virtues. The magnificent burial underscores his honor and the importance of filial piety. This verse encapsulates the core values emphasized throughout the Book of Tobit.
This verse from Tobit 14:11 is a powerful concluding statement, both in terms of moral instruction and the patriarch's passing. Let's break it down:
"And now, my children, consider what alms does, and how righteousness delivers." This is the core message.
"Alms does": This refers to the practice of giving generously to the poor and needy. The book of Tobit emphasizes the importance of almsgiving, suggesting it has tangible benefits and can atone for sins (see Tobit 4:10-11). It implies that almsgiving brings blessings and protection.
"Righteousness delivers": Righteousness encompasses a broad range of morally upright behaviors, including honesty, integrity, following God's law, and treating others justly. The verse suggests that living a righteous life offers salvation and rescue from hardship or even death. This isn't necessarily a promise of physical immortality, but more likely a spiritual and eternal reward.
Together, these phrases highlight the importance of both charitable actions and moral conduct. They are presented as a legacy and parting advice to his children, urging them to continue these practices. Alms and righteousness are presented as intertwined and vital for a fulfilling and protected life.
"While he was saying these things, he gave up the ghost in the bed; but he was one hundred fifty eight years old." This describes Tobit's death.
"Gave up the ghost": This is an archaic way of saying he died.
"One hundred fifty eight years old": This emphasizes his long life, which is likely intended to be viewed as a blessing and a testament to the wisdom and righteousness of his life. (People living to such an old age is common in this and other books of the Apocrypha.)
"Tobias buried him magnificently." This describes the final act of respect shown to Tobit by his son. The "magnificent" burial suggests a funeral of great honor and expense, reflecting the family's respect and love for Tobit, and likely his social standing.
In Summary:
The verse serves as a concise moral lesson from a dying patriarch to his children, urging them to practice almsgiving and righteousness. It links these actions to deliverance and blessings. The fact that Tobit dies peacefully in old age while delivering this message reinforces the idea that he lived a blessed life as a result of these virtues. The magnificent burial underscores his honor and the importance of filial piety. This verse encapsulates the core values emphasized throughout the Book of Tobit.
