Tobit 4:3 - And he called him, and said, “My child, if I die, bury me. Don’t despise your mother. Honor her all the days of your life, and do that which is pleasing to her, and don’t grieve her.
Select Bible Verse
Filter Categories
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
V
W
What does "Tobit 4:3" mean?
This verse from Tobit 4:3 is part of Tobit's instructions to his son, Tobias, as he anticipates his own death. Let's break down its meaning:
"And he called him, and said, 'My child, if I die, bury me.'": This establishes the context and the close relationship between father and son. Tobit is facing his mortality and is giving Tobias final instructions. Requesting burial is more than just a practical matter; it's a sign of respect and continuing the family line.
"Don't despise your mother. Honor her all the days of your life...": This is the core of the verse. Tobit emphasizes the importance of respecting and valuing his wife, Anna, particularly after he is gone. "Despise" suggests treating her with contempt or disregard. "Honor" implies showing her esteem, obedience, and care. This instruction is not just for a short time but "all the days" of Tobias's life. It underscores the lifelong obligation a child has to their parents.
"...and do that which is pleasing to her, and don't grieve her.": This provides further guidance on how to honor Anna. It's not just about empty words; it's about actions. Tobias should actively seek to please his mother and avoid causing her pain or sorrow. This highlights the emotional well-being of the surviving parent.
In essence, the verse emphasizes:
Filial duty and respect: The overarching theme is the importance of a son's responsibility to his parents, especially his mother.
Respect for the elderly and vulnerable: Anna, as a widow, would be in a potentially vulnerable position. Tobit wants to ensure she is cared for and respected.
The importance of family unity: By encouraging Tobias to honor and please his mother, Tobit is trying to maintain family harmony and prevent future conflicts.
The message is a timeless one, highlighting the enduring value of familial love, respect, and care, especially when a family faces loss and change.
Tobit 4:3 - And he called him, and said, “My child, if I die, bury me. Don’t despise your mother. Honor her all the days of your life, and do that which is pleasing to her, and don’t grieve her.
What does "Tobit 4:3" mean?
This verse from Tobit 4:3 is part of Tobit's instructions to his son, Tobias, as he anticipates his own death. Let's break down its meaning:
"And he called him, and said, 'My child, if I die, bury me.'": This establishes the context and the close relationship between father and son. Tobit is facing his mortality and is giving Tobias final instructions. Requesting burial is more than just a practical matter; it's a sign of respect and continuing the family line.
"Don't despise your mother. Honor her all the days of your life...": This is the core of the verse. Tobit emphasizes the importance of respecting and valuing his wife, Anna, particularly after he is gone. "Despise" suggests treating her with contempt or disregard. "Honor" implies showing her esteem, obedience, and care. This instruction is not just for a short time but "all the days" of Tobias's life. It underscores the lifelong obligation a child has to their parents.
"...and do that which is pleasing to her, and don't grieve her.": This provides further guidance on how to honor Anna. It's not just about empty words; it's about actions. Tobias should actively seek to please his mother and avoid causing her pain or sorrow. This highlights the emotional well-being of the surviving parent.
In essence, the verse emphasizes:
Filial duty and respect: The overarching theme is the importance of a son's responsibility to his parents, especially his mother.
Respect for the elderly and vulnerable: Anna, as a widow, would be in a potentially vulnerable position. Tobit wants to ensure she is cared for and respected.
The importance of family unity: By encouraging Tobias to honor and please his mother, Tobit is trying to maintain family harmony and prevent future conflicts.
The message is a timeless one, highlighting the enduring value of familial love, respect, and care, especially when a family faces loss and change.