Tobias Begins His Journey with Raphael

Tobit told his son about the money left in trust with Gabael at Rages in Media. He told Tobias not to be afraid because they were poor. He said that real riches were found in fearing God, turning from sin, and doing what pleases him. Tobias answered that he would do all his father had commanded.

Tobias asked how he could collect the money when he did not know Gabael. Tobit gave him the written record and told him to find a man to travel with him for wages. When Tobias went to look, he found Raphael, though Tobias did not know he was an angel.

Tobias asked whether the man could go with him to Rages and whether he knew the way. The man said that he could go, that he knew the road well, and that he had lodged with Gabael. Tobias asked him to wait while he told his father, and Tobit asked for the traveller to be brought in.

Tobit wanted to know the traveller’s family and whether he was trustworthy. The man said his name was Azarias, son of Ananias, and that he was of Tobit’s kindred. Tobit welcomed him warmly, remembering his family as faithful worshippers in Jerusalem. Then Tobit arranged wages for the journey, and they agreed.

Tobias prepared for the trip. Tobit sent him off with a blessing, asking God in heaven to prosper the journey and to send his angel with them. Tobias left with his companion, and the dog went too. Anna wept and said their child mattered more than more money. Tobit told her not to worry, saying that a good angel would go with him. Then she stopped weeping.