THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
The law serves as a guide to basic principles, directing us toward a deeper understanding of God's commandments. It outlines foundational practices that encourage generosity towards those in need. For instance, it states: "When thou shalt reap in thy field, and shalt forget the sheaf in the field, thou shalt not return to take it; let it remain to the stranger, ..., the orphan, and the widow, that the Lord thy God may bless thee in all the works of thy hands. When thou shalt upholster thy olive tree, thou shalt not revise the branches after thee: let it remain to the stranger, the orphan, and the widow....
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When thou takest the fruit of thy vineyard, thou shalt not gather the residue after thee: let it remain for the stranger, the orphan, and the widow: and remember that thou wast a slave in the land of Egypt: therefore I command thee to do these things" (Deuteronomy 24:19-22). This guidance helps to cultivate a spirit of gratitude by reminding us of past tribulations, fostering compassion in abundance, and ensuring remembrance of the trials that accompany scarcity.