Translators will want to notice that fifty years pass between the events described in previous chapters and this chapter.

Good News Translation combines its verses 1-2 so as to have all the events mentioned in their proper order in time. However, this restructuring only creates problems here, because verse 3 forces the reader to backtrack anyway. It would be better to begin this final section with the author’s summary statement about Tobit’s death and burial, as New Revised Standard Version and Contemporary English Version do. This is no different from the way a person’s death is reported in modern times, beginning with a notice of death, and then describing the person’s achievements in life. This will allow the rest of the events in this chapter to unfold in natural order: Tobit losing his eyesight, regaining it, continuing to lead a good life, his dying words, his death and funeral, the later life and death of Tobias.

Tobit died in peace may be rendered “died a peaceful death” (Good News Translation).

Was buried with great honor in Nineveh may be translated “they buried him in Nineveh with great honor” or “they honored him greatly as they buried him in Nineveh.”

Sixty-two: The other Greek text and the Old Latin say he was 58, but translators are urged to follow New Revised Standard Version and Good News Translation here.

When he lost his eyesight may be rendered “when he became blind” (Good News Translation, Contemporary English Version).

After regaining it means “after his eyes were healed” or “after he was able to see again.”

He lived in prosperity may be translated “he became wealthy again” (similarly Contemporary English Version). This is literally “he lived in good [circumstances].”

For giving alms, see 4.7.

For blessing God, see 3.11.

Acknowledging God’s majesty means “telling people about his greatness.” See the note at 12.6.

A possible model for this verse is:

• Tobit died a peaceful death at the age of 112, and they buried him in Nineveh with great honor. He had been 62 years old when he became blind, but after regaining his sight, he lived a full life. He gave generously to the poor, and he continued to praise the greatness of God.

Quoted with permission from Bullard, Roger A. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on Tobit. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2001. For this and other handbooks for translators see here.