THEOSISTheodoret of Cyrus
The spouse of the Prophet is designated by God as the Prophet's wife, and following her passing, the Prophet receives a command to neither weep nor mourn, but to silently lament. Through the phrase referring to the loins and thoughts (as some interpretations suggest), God addresses the Prophet's wife and instructs him to refrain from tears and sorrow, urging him instead to mourn inwardly, despite the sorrow he feels deep within. The term "loins" signifies the longing for procreation. Similarly, the divine Apostle speaks of Levi, stating: ‘He was still in the loins of his father when Melchisedec met him’ (Hebrews 7:10), highlighting the depth of connection and blessing. This exemplifies why we are directed to gird up our loins (Eph.
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6:14), emphasizing the need to discipline our cravings and control their impulses. Thus, to convey the intensity of grief, God justly declares, ‘The groaning of the blood, the loins weep,’ indicating the inner turmoil stemming from death within oneself. Nevertheless, the Prophet is told not to shed tears even amidst such a tragedy. You shall not allow man to weep. The way is also revealed: Your vines shall clothe you, your shoes shall be upon your feet, and you shall not find comfort in their words, nor shall you take bread from others. You shall refrain from engaging in the typical customs of mourners, such as shaving the head, walking barefoot, or seeking solace at the wake. It is likely that the Prophet was a Nazorean, as it is specified that he should let his hair remain uncut; indeed, it was decreed that he drink water instead of wine, both practices distinct to the Nazorean life.