Tobit 7:14 - He called Edna his wife, then took a book, wrote a contract, and sealed it.

Generated Verse: Tobit 7:14

What does "Tobit 7:14" mean?


Tobit 7:14 describes the formalization of the marriage between Tobias and Sarah. Let's break down the verse and understand its significance:

"He called Edna his wife...": This likely refers to Tobit taking Sarah to his mother, Edna. This would be to introduce Sarah and formally recognize her as his wife in the eyes of his family. It's a public acknowledgment of their marital status within the household.

"...then took a book, wrote a contract...": This is the crucial part. The "book" is likely a writing tablet or scroll used for legal documents. Writing a contract formalized the marriage legally and financially. This contract would have outlined the terms of the marriage, dowry, inheritance, and other important legal considerations, protecting the rights of both Tobias and Sarah. It would be a standard practice at the time, especially with such a large dowry.

"...and sealed it.": Sealing the contract gave it legal validity. A seal was a personal mark of authenticity, much like a signature today. It signified that the contract was binding and that the parties involved agreed to its terms. This action gave the contract the force of law.

In essence, this verse depicts the steps taken to make the marriage between Tobias and Sarah official and legally binding according to the customs and laws of the time. The contract was essential for protecting both families' interests and ensuring the stability of the marriage. The mention of the contract is a typical element of marriage narratives in the Old Testament, underscoring the importance of legal and social validation.

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