THEOSISJewgenij A. Popow
This represents the ultimate and most excessive form of indulgence. To conclude our discussion on the various types of sexual immorality, we must first recognize that it is crucial not to resist the initial temptation that leads to this sin. Following that first temptation, if one does not erect strong barriers against it, one becomes susceptible to all forms of sexual vice. Wherever there exists human flesh, the enemy—the devil—draws near, just as he is attracted to those engaging in same-sex relations when no opposite sex is present. If human flesh is not accessible, some (as we have observed) permit bodily immorality even without the involvement of another person.
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The devil, the destroyer of souls, strongly encourages humanity towards unnatural acts because such acts are more grievous in the eyes of God and more detrimental to both soul and body. Ultimately, when neither opposite-sex nor same-sex human flesh is available, the devil entices individuals to seek carnal relations with animals. This leads to the practice of consuming animal flesh, which reflects violence against another species—beings lacking reason—while humankind is intended to be stewards over animals. Both Scripture and the Church impose severe penalties for bestiality, declaring, “Every bestialist shall be put to death.” An animal exploited for human passions is also condemned; it is promptly put to death under the law (Lev. 20:16) as being defiled. Should not the herdsman be wary that the first flash of divine judgment may strike him as well? According to Church regulations, those who engage in such sins later in life face a lifetime of penance, or epithymia, until death (Ancyr. sob.16), while even the young are assigned a minimum epithymia of fifteen years (Vas. Vel.67). (This moral corruption can be perpetrated by both men and women. For women, it may manifest in a less overtly disgusting manner; however, in such cases, it often transforms into a deeper passion, making it even harder to expose, thus remaining unrepentant.) It is here that we are particularly struck by the words of the Scripture: “(Eph. 5:12)—But, dear reader, our hearts tremble at the notion of how those who engage in such vile fornication destroy both soul and body! Such behaviors as drunkenness, idle living, and an inappropriate camaraderie with cattle contribute to this depravity.