THEOSISJerome of Stridon
And He said to me, "If you turn back, you shall witness the greater abominations they commit." He then led me to the gateway of the Lord's house that faces north, and lo, the women were seated there, mourning for Adonis. What we refer to as Adonis is known as Thamuz in the Hebrew and Syriac texts, which, according to pagan lore, recounts how this handsome youth, loved by Venus, was slain in June and subsequently revived. This month is likewise named in his honor, marked by an annual festival in which he is mourned by women as if dead, only to be celebrated and glorified thereafter for being alive.
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As we detail the actions of the leaders and elders of the house of Israel in the temple, in darkness, and in secluded chambers, we also find a profound depiction of the vices of these women who lament the absence of their beloved and find joy upon their return. Given that the same Gentiles cleverly interpret these unsavory mythical tales—associating the death and resurrection of Adonis with both weeping and exultation—as symbolizing the seeds that perish in the soil while later rejuvenated, we could characterize those who grieve or celebrate under both adverse and favorable worldly conditions as women of fragile and indulgent spirits. They grieve for that which is esteemed as beautiful in worldly matters.