Bible Study on the book of Tobit: God works for you when you work for the Lord - Fr Joseph Edattu VC

Summary

The transcript details a Bible study session focused on the Book of Tobit, highlighting Tobit's acts of charity and obedience to God's commandments amidst his tribe's idolatry. It discusses Tobit's charitable deeds, such as feeding the hungry and burying the dead, drawing parallels to Isaiah 58. The session also covers Tobit's response to King Sennacherib's punishment by God for blasphemy, as mentioned in 2 Kings 19, and Tobit's eventual vindication through the intervention of his nephew Aikar, who was appointed by Sennacherib's successor.

Takeaways

• 📖 The script is a discussion of the Book of Tobit, focusing on chapter 1 and the actions of Tobit in performing acts of charity and obedience to God's commands.
• 🙏 Tobit is portrayed as a devout man who gives alms to the poor, clothes to the naked, and proper burial to the dead, reflecting the teachings of the Bible, particularly from Isaiah 58:6-9.
• 👑 The narrative includes historical context involving King Shalmaneser of Assyria and King Sennacherib, illustrating the political backdrop against which Tobit's actions took place.
• 🕊 Tobit's obedience to God's laws, including tithing, is highlighted as a central theme, showing his commitment to religious observance amidst a tribe that worshiped a golden calf.
• 😔 The story mentions the negative consequences of Sennacherib's blasphemy against God, leading to divine punishment and his eventual assassination.
• 🏛️ Tobit secretly buried the bodies of those killed by Sennacherib, showing his compassion and respect for the dead, even in times of danger.
• 📜 The script references 2 Kings 19, providing a biblical account of Sennacherib's downfall and the divine intervention that protected the city of Jerusalem.
• 🏞️ The story of Tobit's property being confiscated and his subsequent flight is mentioned, illustrating the trials and tribulations he faced for his faith and actions.
• 🔄 A positive outcome is presented where Tobit's nephew Aikar intercedes for him, leading to the return of Tobit's favor and property, demonstrating the importance of family and support.
• 👥 The role of Aikar as a prominent figure in the administration under King Sennacherib and his influence in reinstating Tobit's position is highlighted.
• 🔚 The conclusion of chapter 1 is marked by the restoration of Tobit's status and the affirmation of his faith and actions, providing a sense of closure to the chapter.

Q & A

What book of the Bible were they studying in the transcript?

They were studying the book of Tobit.

What chapter and verse did they reach in their study?

They reached chapter 1, verse 15 in the book of Tobit.

What actions did Tobit perform during his time?

Tobit performed acts of charity such as giving food to the hungry, clothing to the naked, and providing proper burials for the dead.

What is the significance of the actions mentioned in the transcript according to the book of Isaiah?

The actions are significant as they reflect the commands of God in Isaiah 58:6-9, emphasizing the importance of helping the oppressed, the hungry, the naked, and the homeless.

Who was Shalmaneser in the context of the script?

Shalmaneser was the king of Assyria during Tobit's time, and Tobit had special access to the king.

What did Tobit do when Sennacherib came to power?

When Sennacherib came to power, Tobit continued his acts of charity despite the difficulties, and he also secretly buried the bodies of those whom Sennacherib had put to death.

Why was Sennacherib punished by God according to the script?

Sennacherib was punished by God for his blasphemy against the God of Israel and for his anger that led to the destruction of many Jewish people.

What is the connection between the story of Tobit and the events in 2 Kings 19?

The connection is that both stories involve Sennacherib, who was punished by God for his actions and blasphemy, as described in 2 Kings 19.

How did Tobit's property get confiscated?

Tobit's property was confiscated after he was discovered burying the bodies of those killed by Sennacherib, which led to him being a target for punishment.

What happened to Tobit after his property was confiscated?

After his property was confiscated, Tobit went into hiding and later fled due to the threat of being put to death. He was eventually able to return to Nineveh with the help of his nephew Achiachar.

What role did Achiachar play in Tobit's life after his return to Nineveh?

Achiachar, who was Tobit's nephew and a prominent figure in the administration under King Sennacherib, interceded for Tobit, allowing him to return safely to Nineveh.