THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
Additionally, following the reception of this sacred nourishment, we must consider the nature of life for the individual who has partaken of this holy food. This meaning is precisely what the unleavened bread and the days of unleavened bread signify. The Jewish people place great importance on unleavened bread, believing that the seven days of its observance provide them with a unique advantage. They refrain from consuming leavened bread and remember it, yet they cannot articulate any genuine benefit from this practice, since they adhere to the form rather than the substance. However, one should comprehend the significance of unleavened bread in light of the Apostle's teachings, which we have illustrated.
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It signifies that the soul must be pure and untainted by evil, allowing for a renewed way of life devoid of past vices. The intended meaning is evident: “there shall be no leaven in your houses: for whosoever shall eat leaven, that soul shall be destroyed out of the company of the children of Israel.” A return to previous iniquities leads to destruction for the individual who has transitioned into newness of life. “If ye live according to the flesh,” it states, “ye shall die” (Rom. 8:13). What, then, is the symbolic meaning of the seven days of unleavened bread? The instruction is to eat unleavened bread for seven days. These seven days represent the entirety of time, as after the seventh day, which signifies rest, the cycle begins anew. This progression of time moves forward while simultaneously reflecting upon the seven days. Throughout all of time, one ought to live in simplicity and purity, which is truly beneficial. “If,” it states, “ye mortify the deeds of the flesh by the spirit, ye shall live” (Rom. 8:13). The demeanor of one who does not pursue earthly desires is marked by simplicity, devoid of malice or deceit, entirely alien to all things wicked and detestable.