THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
Let us examine what happens next. Saul commanded, "Let us pursue the enemies... and seize their possessions," but the priest replied, "Let us consult God." In ancient times, God served as the commander in battles, and the Israelites would not engage in conflict without His blessing; for them, warfare was a matter of faith. If they faced defeat, it stemmed not from physical weakness but rather from their own transgressions. Their losses were not attributed to bravery or military prowess but were permitted by God's will. For the Israelites, both victory and defeat served as lessons in virtue, applicable not only to them but also to their adversaries.
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They understood that the outcome against the Israelites was governed not by physical weapons but by the conduct and morality of the combatants. Recognizing the indomitable spirit of the Israelites and the difficulty of conquering them through force, the Midianites employed a different tactic. They adorned maidens and presented them before the Israelite army to lead the soldiers into immorality, thereby severing their connection to God through acts of adultery, which ultimately occurred. In succumbing to sin, the Israelites who were once invincible became vulnerable; what could not be overcome by swords, horses, or strategic maneuvers was yielded to sin, handing them over to their foes. Weapons lost their efficacy while the allure of beauty and the temptation of lust led these valiant men astray. Hence, one wisely advises: “Do not desire the beauty of a stranger; do not associate with an immoral woman” (Sir. 9:8, 3). “Honey drips from the mouth of an immoral woman, which may momentarily please your palate; but in the end, it proves to be bitter and sharper than a sword” (Proverbs 5:3-4). The immoral woman cannot truly love; her craftiness conceals poison, her words conceal deadly intentions. If her nature is not recognized quickly, one should be even more cautious, as she hides destruction and brings forth death that is initially cloaked. Therefore, anyone seeking joy and sincere fulfillment should avoid the company of wayward women; they incite countless conflicts and turmoil within the souls of their admirers, leading them towards strife and discord through word and action. Like the most merciless of foes, they orchestrate downfall into disgrace, poverty, and great misfortune. Just as fishermen lay traps to ensnare their prey, these women cast a net of desire, using their looks, gestures, and words to ensnare and entrap their suitors, draining them of their vitality, only to mock them later for their folly. Such a man warrants not sympathy but ridicule; his foolishness surpasses that of any woman, even one lacking decency. Thus, the wise one also instructs: “Son, drink water from your own cisterns and from your own wells” (Proverbs 5:15); and again, “Let your love and joy be found in your own spouse” (Proverbs 5:19). This speaks to the sanctity of marital bonds: why abandon the true helper to pursue the adversary? Why neglect the partner who shares your life and instead be drawn to one who disrupts it? The former is your true connection, while the latter is a threat. Therefore, dear ones, shun adultery, considering the serious present consequences as well as the future judgment. Though some may perceive this as straying from the topic, it is not a diversion. Our intention is not merely to narrate stories but to address the passions that trouble you. Hence, we frequently provide counsel, presenting diverse teachings. In a large congregation, there are inevitably varied ailments to remedy, not just one but many distinct issues; thus, the healing nature of doctrine must also be addressed in multifaceted ways. Let us, however, return to the matter at hand, which we initially set aside to articulate this point.