THEOSISBeda Venerabilis
Many faithful members of the Church have often chosen to follow and wholeheartedly serve those who are appointed as their spiritual leaders, nurturing them with genuine love. These leaders were perceived as wise, likened to serpents for their deep reflections on Scripture. However, these guardians of harmony within the Church were unaware that their instructors were not nearly as innocent as doves (Matthew 10:16). Eventually, all hidden matters reveal themselves, and such ‘sowing of error’ and idol-making (Isaiah 45:16) exposed the blind spots in their understanding. It cannot be said of them, "Thy eyes are dove-like" (Song of Songs 1:14).
Read more (99 words)
Instead, they strive to divert the gaze of their listeners, hindering their ability to perceive celestial truths and engage in profound contemplation of divine realities. They guide the faithful to only witness wickedness and corruption, seeking to rob them of their strength in the spiritual battles we face daily against the forces of evil (Eph. 6:12). This mirrors the intentions of Nahash the Ammonite, who sought to remove the right eye of the people of Jabesh Gilead, rendering them unable to see what was necessary to defend themselves against their adversaries while their left side was shielded in combat.