THEOSISTheodoret of Cyrus
You will conceive wicked thoughts in your heart and say, I will ascend to the forsaken land, and I will approach the people of silence who dwell in stillness, inhabiting a territory devoid of barriers, doors, or faith. The prophet speaks of restoring the captives and reclaiming their treasures, turning my hand towards the desolate land filled with those gathered from numerous tongues, who have made a grave of what lies at the earth's depths. This narrative reveals what occurred following the exile when the cities of the Jews, as foretold, stood without walls, doors, or locks; thus the surrounding nations boldly challenged them. Yet, upon their return, the people of Israel were glorified, restored by the mighty hand of God.
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Just as their escape from Egypt marked their renown, their return from Babylon similarly captured the attention of all, prompting these nations to confront them. One should not dismiss the prophecy as unbelievable due to the distance between the Scythian nations and Judah, but rather recognize that even in our present time, this people occupied the entire East, enslaving many before they departed. The prophet notes that among his battalions were Phrygians, Galatians, Iberians, Persians, and Ethiopians—not merely as subjects, but as those who united with him through various circumstances, some enlisting willingly, while others were taken captive and compelled to join the fight. To this, the word of God extends a poignant message on behalf of the other nations, saying: