THEOSISTheodoret of Cyrus
Weep and lament, O son of man, for this is true of all the elders of Israel: those who are close to me are struck down alongside my people. What can rival this act of mercy? He administers justice faithfully and instructs the Prophet to mourn; for His chastisement is not out of desire but arises from the wickedness of the people. Yet, He directs the Prophet, like a grieving woman, to be astonished that not only the people but also their leaders fall by the sword, and most sorrowfully, those closest to me, as it is written, are slain alongside my people. The priests, having engaged in the people's transgressions, suffer the same fate; I refer to them as those who dwell in proximity, akin to those inhabiting the sacred temple, entrusted with holy duties. Therefore, prepare your hands (13).
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And what if a tribe were to be severed? It shall not come to pass, declares the Lord God. Stand in awe of the righteousness of this punishment; for those who remain will not find themselves unaffected by this discipline; it will be the start of vindication for the Jews. Although this tribe, which has been separated from the nations, faces rejection (and this refers to the entire Jewish nation), it will rise again and be restored. It is abundantly clear that this prophecy is affirmed by the Lord and Master Himself.