The verse "Then I returned, washed myself, ate my bread in heaviness," from Tobit 2:5 describes Tobit's emotional and physical state after a deeply upsetting experience. Let's break down the meaning:
"Then I returned...": This indicates Tobit is coming back to his home or usual dwelling after being away.
"...washed myself...": Washing was a common practice for cleansing and purification after contact with something considered impure or unclean. In this context, it likely suggests that Tobit felt soiled or defiled by what he had witnessed and wanted to cleanse himself physically and perhaps symbolically.
"...ate my bread in heaviness...": Eating bread signifies sustenance, but the phrase "in heaviness" reveals Tobit's emotional state. He is eating while feeling burdened, sorrowful, or grieved. The meal provides no comfort or enjoyment; it is consumed under a cloud of sadness.
Overall Meaning:
The verse portrays Tobit returning home physically and emotionally drained. The act of washing suggests a desire to cleanse himself of something unpleasant, while eating "in heaviness" highlights the deep sorrow or despair he is experiencing. It sets a somber tone and emphasizes the emotional toll of the events he has witnessed.
The verse "Then I returned, washed myself, ate my bread in heaviness," from Tobit 2:5 describes Tobit's emotional and physical state after a deeply upsetting experience. Let's break down the meaning:
"Then I returned...": This indicates Tobit is coming back to his home or usual dwelling after being away.
"...washed myself...": Washing was a common practice for cleansing and purification after contact with something considered impure or unclean. In this context, it likely suggests that Tobit felt soiled or defiled by what he had witnessed and wanted to cleanse himself physically and perhaps symbolically.
"...ate my bread in heaviness...": Eating bread signifies sustenance, but the phrase "in heaviness" reveals Tobit's emotional state. He is eating while feeling burdened, sorrowful, or grieved. The meal provides no comfort or enjoyment; it is consumed under a cloud of sadness.
Overall Meaning:
The verse portrays Tobit returning home physically and emotionally drained. The act of washing suggests a desire to cleanse himself of something unpleasant, while eating "in heaviness" highlights the deep sorrow or despair he is experiencing. It sets a somber tone and emphasizes the emotional toll of the events he has witnessed.