THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
What he has articulated, he has made plain. Should anyone desire to provide a straightforward historical account, they would certainly assert that to those who were taken captive, he proclaimed their return and that they would reclaim their lands, rebuild their cities and homes, and eventually experience a fulfilling life, reaping the bounty of the fields, engaging in joyful agricultural work. This would result in ceaseless labor, as the good harvest would lead them to the grape harvest, which in turn would continue until the sowing time. Thus, the farmer transitions from sharpening tools and handling bunches to plowing the fields, and after clearing the threshing floor, resumes the work of sharpening.
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However, if we wish to explore a deeper and more spiritual understanding of what has been expressed, it is only fitting to consider the following. As I mentioned, when Christ resurrected and the Father restored the fallen tabernacle of David, raising up its ruins (Am. 9:11), there was an outpouring of spiritual gifts to all, both Gentiles and Jews; for there is one God who justifies both the circumcised and uncircumcised by faith (Rom. 3:30). Thus, the abundance of spiritual fruits for the faithful can be excellently represented by the harvest of the earth, for it is written, there shall be abundant bread and wine.
Now we shall receive bread for our spiritual fortification, as it is written, and bread will strengthen the heart of man (Psalms 103:15), indicating its heavenly and divine nature; and wine for joy, as it is also said, wine rejoices the heart of man (Psalms 103:15). We rejoice in hope, as Paul wrote (Rom. 12:12). The mountains also flow with sweetness. Here, mountains symbolize the churches of Christ, due to the lofty truths upheld within them and their remarkable piety toward God. Just as mountains are adorned with diverse flora, so too do the churches of Christ contain a vast multitude of holy individuals, likened to cedars and lofty trees planted by the streams of spiritual waters.
In addition, as bees flock to richly wooded mountains to produce sweet, precious honey, similarly, those who excel in virtue and understanding of Christ’s teachings gather this sweet nectar and share it with others. This is how, I believe, mountains exude sweetness. Yet, he declares there shall also be hills planted. The hills represent those of lesser virtue compared to the more eminent, as different levels of holiness and righteousness exist within the churches, aptly noted by Paul, according to the grace given to each (Eph. 4:7) from the divine Provider. Thus, they shall be planted, meaning they will flourish and bear fruit, their minds enriched with the righteousness of divine truths.
And there is no doubt that the God of all humanity has restored our captivity, as Christ proclaimed liberty to the captives (Luke 4:18) and liberated the heavenly realms from the grasp of the enemy. Like diligent farmers, we have become eager for spiritual abundance, planting vineyards and enjoying their fruits, for we shall reap the rewards of our efforts, gathering the fruits of righteousness. Furthermore, we shall dwell steadily with God, and once His inheritance is granted, none can dispossess those who receive it. This is affirmed by the Lord God’s proclamation, I will plant them in their own land: for the church of God is such a gift, which He will not renounce; and we will remain in the enduring strength of every good thing, having Christ Himself as our teacher and guide.