THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
Fasting undoubtedly holds significant value and possesses remarkable strength for the wise, particularly when it is accompanied by prayer, as demonstrated by the preceding discussion and the narrative I present here. The foes who had once triumphed over the Israelites launched an attack, believing they would easily overpower them this time. However, to their astonishment, they themselves were defeated and fell before the Israelites. This was not due to a large or seasoned army of foot soldiers and cavalry, but rather due to the formidable intervention of God, who defended His people. The heavens roared with might and menace against the attackers, causing those who had previously been filled with arrogant confidence to flee in terror. In contrast, the Israelites triumphed over their adversaries through the divine power of fasting and prayer.