3 June 2021

Then Raguel summoned his daughter Sarah. When she came to him he took her by the hand and gave her to Tobias, saying, ‘Take her to be your wife in accordance with the law and decree written in the book of Moses. Take her and bring her safely to your father. And may the God of heaven prosper your journey with his peace.’ Then he called her mother and told her to bring writing material; and he wrote out a copy of a marriage contract, to the effect that he gave her to him as wife according to the decree of the law of Moses. Then they began to eat and drink.

Tobit 6:10-11, 7:1,9-14, 8:4-9, NRSV

Guided by the angel Raphael, Tobias found his way to the house of his relative Raguel where he requested marriage to Raguel’s daughter Sarah. Raguel acknowledged Tobias’ right under the Jewish Law to make this request since he was Sarah’s closest relative. However, he also felt that he needed to warn Tobias of the fate of Sarah’s seven previous husbands who had all died even before the consummation of their marriage. Raguel tried to persuade Tobias to eat, drink and be merry rather than rushing straight to marriage. Tobias thought differently. Although he was frightened by the apparent curse that befell those who married Sarah, he was reassured by Raphael that this would not happen to him. The marriage ceremony duly went ahead and together Sarah and Tobias prayed for God’s mercy, protection and blessing on their marriage.

• • Why do you think Tobit trusted in the angel’s reassurance?
  • What can we learn from Tobias and Sarah’s approach to their marriage?

Pray for those who are married or preparing for marriage.