Deuteronomy 32:12Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

When I refer to 'one,' I signify the sacred and uncreated nature of God. The terms 'one' and 'only' are depicted in Scripture in relation to God, not in contrast to the Holy Spirit, but in opposition to false deities that are mistakenly termed gods. For instance, it is written, 'The Lord is one; there was no foreign god among them.'

We can comprehend this in relation to the Redeemer, for on the cross He encircled us with His protection: and under His wings you shall find trust. (Rom. 10:21.) The hands of the Lord, raised towards the heavens, did not seek assistance, but shielded us in our misery.

Our Teacher is sacred; He is the Divine Jesus, the Logos, the head of all humanity; He, the God of love for mankind, embodies our Teacher. In one of the songs of praise, the Holy Spirit testifies about Him, stating that He ‘found him in the wilderness, in the steppe sad’ and ‘wild; fenced him, watched over him, kept him as the apple of His eye. As an eagle calls up his nest; bears over his chicks, spreads out his wings, takes them on his feathers: so the Lord alone led him, and there was no strange God with him.’ (Deuteronomy 32:10-12). This scripture clearly illustrates the nurturing presence of our Teacher. Furthermore, He proclaims His identity as the Educator, saying, ‘I am the Lord thy God. Who brought thee out of Egypt’ (Ex. 20:2). Who possesses the authority to guide and deliver? Is it not the Teacher?

The Lord envelops us, His humble followers, providing sustenance and warmth. His embrace is not oppressive or overwhelming; rather, it is gentle and nurturing, reflecting His mercy. He extends His protection over us like a bird spreading its wings.

Having turned away from foreign deities, you have joined in communion with the one true God, who has guided you through the waters of the Red Sea.

Do you recognize the might of the One and Only? That no foreign deity accompanied them since the Lord Himself guided their way? The Lord leads those who choose to walk with Him, not those who stray from His path. To what one gives allegiance, he inevitably turns. Thus, if we desire to have no other god alongside us, whether it be a demon or a desire, we must faithfully follow the One through our spiritual connection with Him. In doing so, it can truly be said of us: the Lord alone directs their steps; therefore, there are no foreign deities among them.