This verse from Tobit 8:21 is part of a longer passage describing the instructions given to Tobias by the angel Raphael (disguised as a human named Azarias) concerning how to deal with Tobit's regained sight and the reward for Tobias's service. Let's break it down:
"and that then he should take half of his goods..." This refers to Tobias being instructed to take half of Tobit's wealth as payment for his journey and for helping Tobit regain his sight. Remember, Tobias had successfully traveled to Media, recovered a debt for Tobit, and married Sarah, all under Raphael's guidance.
"...and go in safety to his father..." This simply means that Tobias was to return home safely to his father, Tobit.
"and the rest, said he, when my wife and I die." This means that the remaining half of Tobit's wealth would eventually belong to Tobias and his wife Sarah after Tobit and his wife Anna passed away. It's essentially an inheritance plan. Tobit and Anna were leaving the other half of their wealth to Tobias, but they wanted to enjoy it during their lifetimes.
In summary: Raphael (through Tobias's father-in-law, Raguel) is telling Tobias that he is entitled to half of Tobit's wealth immediately as payment for his services. The remaining half of Tobit's wealth will be inherited by Tobias and Sarah after Tobit and Anna die. The verse emphasizes that Tobias is being rewarded for his faithfulness, obedience, and success in following Raphael's instructions. It also shows a common societal desire to care for family and ensure their future.
This verse from Tobit 8:21 is part of a longer passage describing the instructions given to Tobias by the angel Raphael (disguised as a human named Azarias) concerning how to deal with Tobit's regained sight and the reward for Tobias's service. Let's break it down:
"and that then he should take half of his goods..." This refers to Tobias being instructed to take half of Tobit's wealth as payment for his journey and for helping Tobit regain his sight. Remember, Tobias had successfully traveled to Media, recovered a debt for Tobit, and married Sarah, all under Raphael's guidance.
"...and go in safety to his father..." This simply means that Tobias was to return home safely to his father, Tobit.
"and the rest, said he, when my wife and I die." This means that the remaining half of Tobit's wealth would eventually belong to Tobias and his wife Sarah after Tobit and his wife Anna passed away. It's essentially an inheritance plan. Tobit and Anna were leaving the other half of their wealth to Tobias, but they wanted to enjoy it during their lifetimes.
In summary: Raphael (through Tobias's father-in-law, Raguel) is telling Tobias that he is entitled to half of Tobit's wealth immediately as payment for his services. The remaining half of Tobit's wealth will be inherited by Tobias and Sarah after Tobit and Anna die. The verse emphasizes that Tobias is being rewarded for his faithfulness, obedience, and success in following Raphael's instructions. It also shows a common societal desire to care for family and ensure their future.
