Commentary on the Book of Tobit: New Testament Allusions

Commentary on the Book of Tobit by Keith Humphreys

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This book has a very narrow focus, namely pointing out where the language of the Book of Tobit seems to parallel that of later New Testament writings. Sometimes these parallels seem forced, coincidental, or simply the product of expressing themes that are common to virtually all cultures in a language that is common to all cultures.

However, there are some gems that stand out. This one, for example, was something I picked up on re-reading this book:

“So these principles are throughout the New Testament.

It also says, I am Raphael, one of the seven holy angels, which present the prayers of the saints, and which go in and out before the glory of the Holy One. (Tobit 12:15)

These two ideas, that there are seven angels in God's inner court, and that angels carry prayers and present them before God, are also present in Revelation 8:2-4

And I saw the seven angels which stood before God; and to them were given seven trumpets. 3 And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. 4 And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel's hand.”

Tobit is one of the Deuterocanonical books. I think it's worth attention, but I've had the experience of a lot of Protestants mock the book for things using the gall of a fish to cure cataracts and other parts of the same fish to exorcise demons. Yet, as Humphreys points out, the themes of Tobit are interwoven into Judeo-Christianity:

“From this book, we see concepts that were also taught by Jesus and the apostles, and others that continue with us to this day.

The idea that we should pray for special protection during a long journey, and that angels might be involved in the role of the guidance of pious travelers. The idea that God provides for the healing of his people, often through the administration of natural medicines. The idea that some human afflictions are the result of demonic oppression, and that these demons can be cast out and bound. The idea that God especially regards and rewards prayer, fasting, and giving to the poor. And the idea that God restores the fortunes of those who trust in him though the midst of adversity.”

The narrow focus of this book does not allow for a deep look at Tobit. The book is essentially excerpts from Tobit with Humphrey's remarks at the end of each chapter pointing out the New Testament parallel.

Nonetheless, the book accomplishes what it sets out to do, and what it intends to do is something worth doing.