Our heroes, Tobiyyah and the angel Raphael (disguised as a human, of course), are on a journey. They arrive at Agbatauis (Ecbatana), and Raphael drops a bombshell. "My brother," he says to Tobiyyah, "we're going to spend the night at the house of Reuel. He's an old man, and he has a beautiful, only daughter named Sarah. And... I'm going to ask him to give her to you as your wife."
Can you imagine Tobiyyah's surprise?
Raphael continues, explaining that Sarah is intelligent, and her father loves her dearly. "Listen to me," he urges, "Speak for her! When we return from Rages (Rhages), we'll celebrate the wedding. I know Reuel won’t refuse you; he won't give her to a stranger. You are meant to marry her, according to the law of Moses, and we shall bring her back to your father."
This is more than just a suggestion; it’s a divine nudge. Raphael isn't just offering Tobiyyah a chance at love; he's framing it as something preordained, something in line with Jewish law and tradition. It's a powerful moment.
But hold on – it isn't so simple. As we learn later in the story, Sarah's situation is, shall we say, complicated. She's been married seven times before, and each husband has tragically died on their wedding night, killed by the demon Asmodeus.
Knowing this adds layers to Raphael's words. Is he aware of the danger? Is he confident in his ability to protect Tobiyyah? Is this whole thing a test?
The Book of Tobit doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of life. It acknowledges suffering, loss, and the obstacles that stand in the way of happiness. Yet, it also offers hope, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, divine intervention is possible.
What can we take away from this brief encounter? Perhaps it’s a reminder to trust in the process, even when it seems improbable. Maybe it’s a lesson in courage, urging us to pursue what we desire, even when fear whispers in our ear. Or maybe, just maybe, it's a comforting thought that sometimes, just sometimes, a little nudge from above can change everything.