Course 1, Chapter 47: Preparation for the Messiah — History of Tobias. (A. C. 611.)

1. What was the design of God in causing the Israelites to be transported to Ninive?

The design of God in causing the ten separated tribes to be transported to Ninive, was 1st, to punish their want of fidelity; 2d, to spread among the infidels the knowledge of the true religion, and consequently, of the promise of the Messiah, which was its first article of belief.

2. How do you show this truth?

The holy man Tobias, being led into captivity at Ninive, said by the inspiration of God: Give (/lory to (he Lord, ye children of Israel; because he has there fore scattered you among the Gentiles, that yon may declare his wonderful works, and make them know that there is no other Almighty God beside him.

3. What is the history of Tobias?

Tobias, appointed like the other captives to spread the truth and prepare the way for the gospel, was of the tribe of Nephthali. He passed his child hood and youth in perfect innocence, and was carried captive to Ninive with his wife and son.

4. What was his occupation?

His constant occupation was to do good to the Israelites, his fellow-captives; he shared with them what little remained of his means, and devoted his time to the burying of those whom the king of Ninive

put to death. One day, having returned home from this work of charity, he fell asleep under the eaves of his house, where filth from the nests of some swallows fell upon his eyes and deprived him of sight.

5. What did he do then?

Thinking himself near his death, he called his son, the young Tobias, and, like a Christian father, recommended to him the fear of God and charity for the poor.

6. Whither did he send his son?

He sent his son to Rages, a city of Media, to receive a sum of money which he had lent to one of hi relatives, named Gabelus. The young Tobias set out accompanied by an angel. He married Sara, the daughter of Raguel, a near relation of his father.*

7. What did the young Tobias do afterwards?

Still under the conduct of the angel, he returned with his wife and great riches to his father and mother. He restored his father to sight by rubbing his eyes with the gall of a fish. This holy old man had the consolation to see his son prosper and follow the good example and wise counsels which he had given him. His grand -children also walked in the way of virtue all their life.