In the Book of Tobit, there is an interesting description of the troubles caused by the demon Asmodeus: for, he has killed seven men betrothed to a beautiful woman named Sara daughter of Raguel; who is now promised to Tobit. In this instance, Asmodeus is taken with Sara, therefore, he quickly dispatches with every groom before consummation in order to keep her for himself. This creates a sort of twisted dynamic – akin to the contemporary phenomena of commitment-phobia, erectile dysfunction in young males, and homosexuality, where modern men mistrust women and purposefully avoid them. According to Aleister Crowley and other demonologists, Asmodeus is the protector male homosexuals. With regards to Tobit, fearing for his life, Tobit prays to God for assistance: in His mercy – the Father sends St. Raphael. With his guidance, Tobit and Sara are finally freed from demonic persecution.
The Novena Prayer to Saint Raphael (must be said for nine consecutive days)
Glorious Archangel Saint Raphael,
great prince of the heavenly court,
you are illustrious
for your gifts of wisdom and grace.
You are a guide of those who journey
by land or sea or air,
consoler of the afflicted,
and refuge of sinners.
I beg you,
assist me in all my needs
and in all the sufferings of this life,
as once you helped
the young Tobias on his travels.
Because you are the medicine of God,
I humbly pray you to heal the many infirmities
of my soul and the ills that afflict my body.
I especially ask of you the favor
(Make your request here...)
and the great grace of purity
to prepare me to be the temple of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
St. Raphael,
of the glorious seven
who stand before the throne of Him
who lives and reigns,
Angel of health,
the Lord has filled your hand
with balm from heaven
to soothe or cure our pains.
Heal or cure the victim of disease.
And guide our steps when doubtful of our ways.