SARAH, The Suffering Bride
The story of Sarah in the Book of Tobit is a poignant narrative that intertwines themes of suffering, faith, and divine providence. The Book of Tobit, part of the Deuterocanonical books of the Old Testament, tells the story of Tobit, a righteous Israelite who goes blind and faces many trials, and his son Tobias, who embarks on a journey to retrieve a debt from Media. Central to this narrative is the character of Sarah, whose story is filled with anguish but ultimately leads to hope and redemption.
Sarah, the daughter of Raguel, is introduced as a woman plagued by a tragic fate. She has been married seven times, but each of her husbands has died on their wedding night due to the demonic presence of Asmodeus, a demon who seeks to destroy her happiness. This repeated loss leads Sarah to deep despair and isolation, as she feels cursed and shunned by society. Her plight highlights the themes of suffering and the impact of evil in the world, showcasing how personal tragedy can lead one to question their worth and place in the divine plan.
In her moments of despair, Sarah turns to prayer, seeking relief from her torment. She cries out to God, expressing her anguish and pleading for death to escape her suffering. This act of prayer is significant, as it demonstrates her faith despite her circumstances. It reveals her deep desire for liberation from her affliction, illustrating the human condition's vulnerability and the quest for divine intervention.
The turning point in Sarah's story occurs when Tobias, guided by the angel Raphael, arrives in Media. Unbeknownst to Sarah, Tobias has been sent to marry her and free her from the demon's grasp. Their meeting is steeped in divine orchestration, as both characters are brought together through their prayers and faith. This union serves as a testament to the power of love and faith, reinforcing the idea that God can bring good out of suffering.
When Tobias and Sarah are married, they face the immediate threat of Asmodeus, who seeks to disrupt their union. However, with the guidance of Raphael, Tobias uses a charm to drive the demon away, thus liberating Sarah from her torment. This act symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the possibility of redemption through faith and love.
DISCUSSION STARTERS
What does Sarah’s prayer reflect about her relationship with God, and how does it illustrate the struggle between faith and despair?
In what ways does Sarah demonstrate resilience throughout her trials, and what can we learn from her ability to endure despite repeated loss?
How does the theme of divine intervention manifest in Sarah’s life, particularly in the moments leading up to her marriage with Tobias?
PRAYER
Dear God,
In the spirit of Sarah, a woman who faced profound sorrow and loneliness, we come to You with a humble heart. Just as she turned to You in her darkest moments, we seek Your presence in our own struggles. Grant us the strength to endure our challenges and the courage to trust in Your divine plan.
Help us to remember that even in times of despair, You are listening and ready to bring healing and hope. May we, like Sarah, find solace in prayer and the assurance that You work through our trials for our greater good.
Guide us toward relationships that uplift and support, and let us be a source of hope for others who are suffering. May we always have faith in the possibility of redemption and the beauty of new beginnings.
Thank You for Your unending love and mercy.
Amen.