And God commanded that the earth bring forth vegetation, specifically herbs that yield seeds according to their species and trees that bear fruit according to their kinds, each with its seed within it. Once the earth, having shed its waters, settled down, it was fitting to command it first to generate grass and subsequently trees—an ongoing process evident today. This command, like a law of nature, has been ingrained in the earth for ages, enabling it to produce and bear fruit. "Let the earth bring forth." The emergence of plants begins with the sprouting of a shoot; as it rises, it develops further into grass, achieving maturity through systematic growth until it can reproduce. The greening and ripening of plants occur universally. "Let the earth yield the first herbage." The earth naturally produces shoots, independent of outside aid. While some attribute the growth of plants to the sun, believing it draws forth hidden powers from the depths, the earth's splendor exemplifies its existence before the sun, reminding observers to acknowledge that life itself arises from the earth and not merely the sun. Consequently, recognizing the earth's beauty predates the sun's creation reframes the wonder it inspires, as it came into being before the green and flowering plants.
When food was offered for livestock, were humans deemed unworthy of the same? On the contrary, the One who supplies sustenance for oxen and horses also provides abundance and delight for you. He who nurtures your animals multiplies your provisions. Indeed, the production of seeds serves as a bounty for your nourishment, for many herbs and greens are also meant for human consumption. "Let the earth bring forth herbs that yield seed according to their kind." While some herbs serve others, ultimately their usefulness returns to humanity through the seeds granted to us. Thus, the intention of this command is clear: the earth is to sprout vegetative herbs and seeds that reproduce after their kinds. In this manner, order in creation is articulated clearly as it pertains to nature's yielding. Thus, the sequence must be observed: first the sprout, then the greenery, followed by the herb's maturation, and finally, the fulfillment of what is borne from the seed.
Yet one might ask, how do the Scriptures assert that everything from the earth is sown with seeds, given that certain plants like reeds, meadows, mints, saffron, garlic, and countless others seem seedless? Our response acknowledges that many plants, particularly at their roots, indeed harbor the capacity for seeding. For instance, a reed, after a year, can produce offspring from its roots, essentially taking the place of seeds. Numerous plants scattered across the earth possess this capacity for propagation within their roots. Hence, it becomes evident that every plant either produces seeds or conceals within it the power to create them. The term "by the genus" is meant to convey this. A reed can produce only a reed, just as olive trees stem from their own kind, reflecting the preservation of each species from the initial creation.
"Let the earth sprout." Contemplate how, through a simple decree, the once cold and barren earth swiftly embraces the time for fruition, shedding its grief and donning a vibrant attire, exulting in an array of plants. I wish to instill in you a lasting amazement at creation, so that wherever you are and whatever plants you encounter, you may continuously remember the Creator. Thus, when you observe the lush greenery and hues of grass, think of humanity, recalling the insights of the wise Isaiah: "all flesh is grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass" (Isaiah 40:6). The fleeting nature of life and the transitory joys of human prosperity find fitting parallel in the Prophet’s words. One may bloom physically, being buoyant in desires, full of youthful vitality, yet in the blink of an eye face the frailty brought by time or ill health. Another may attract attention through wealth, surrounded by flattering connections and false friends who vie for favor, surrounded by relatives in disguise and servants fulfilling various needs—all provoking envy in onlookers. Yet what remains when sickness strikes, pain overwhelms, or circumstances alter, leaving behind the emptiness of past grandeur? This does indeed expose the biblical contemplation that human glory resembles the frailty of a simple flower. "Let the earth sprout a former herb, sowing seeds according to its kind and likeness."
Even today, the order of plant life attests to the initial decree, as every green thing and herb still begins as a sprout. No matter the source, whether from roots in the earth or seeds, growth begins with a sprout, transitions into greenery, matures into grass, and ultimately yields fruit on a worn stem. "Let the earth germinate the former herb." As seed falls into soil imbued with the right warmth and moisture, it swells and multiplies, drawing from the earth to establish roots and shoot upwards, producing stems in line with its roots. The consistent warmth nurtures the sprout, with roots absorbing vital nutrients, which nourish the plant's structure, sheathes, grains, and ears. Hence, each plant matures into its own anticipated form, whether grain, legumes, or shrubs. The simplest stalk may occupy your mind with its remarkable artistry; the wheat stem, for instance, is girded with joints, supporting the weight of the kernels bending to the ground. Meanwhile, the oat stem remains hollow, needing no such support since it bears little weight, while the wheat grain is secured within a sheath to protect it from birds, aided by long spikes that deter small animals.
How can one express the breadth of creation's treasures? In gratitude, we should acknowledge that even as beneficial plants grow alongside harmful ones—wheat and hemlock, or other plants—it would be unjust to thank God solely for the good while blaming Him for the detrimental. Are we not to reason that not everything is created for our consumption? What serves as nourishment for one may be unwholesome for another. Like the blood of an ox, which is harmful to us, should it not have existed at all? Instead, we ought to exercise our faculties of reason to guard against harm. If sheep and goats can discern danger through instinct, ought we not, with reason and knowledge of medicine that guides us toward the useful while advising caution with the harmful, to follow suit? Every aspect of creation bears intention; all things either feed animals, or through medicinal use prove advantageous to us, alleviating ailments. While starlings consume hemlock without harm, differing anatomy allows them to process what would poison others, just as quails safely ingest certain plants. Some have utilized plants like mandrake to induce sleep or hemlock to quell lust, and in doing so transformed concerns over creation into reasons for gratitude.
"Let the earth sprout former herbs." The Scripture speaks of the vast range of foods readily available to us in roots, greens, or fruits. The land is not commanded to yield seeds and fruits instantaneously but, rather, sequentially; beginning first with sprouts and leaves, culminating in seeds—this serves as a lesson to maintain natural order in future generations. Questions may arise: if the earth is meant to produce according to the respective kind, how do we find that sowing wheat can yield black grains? Such occurrences do not indicate a shift in genus but rather suggest an affliction or ailment of the seed. Here, wheat is still wheat, albeit injured by excessive cold, discoloration, and taste. It is noted that when provided with suitable soil and favorable air, it can revert to its original character.
Thus, nothing in vegetation opposes the command, for what is commonly deemed tares do not stem from changes in wheat but rather derive from their own origins. They illustrate those who distort the truth of the Lord’s teachings and, corrupted by false doctrine, deceptively mingle with the healthy body of the Church to impart their poison to the unsuspecting. Paralleling this, the Lord likens the growth of believers to the development of seed, illustrating: "As a man sows seed into the ground and sleeps, rising day and night, and the seed sprouts and grows—he knows not how. The earth produces first the shoot, then the ear, and then the full grain in the ear" (Mark 4:26-28). "Let the earth germinate the former." Obedient to the Creator’s command, the earth experiences rich growth, swiftly maturing to fruition. The meadows overflow with lush grass, while the bountiful fields, reaped in the harvest, sway like the sea. Everything green, every vegetable, every plant and pod now flourished abundantly. No hindrance from lack of skill or adverse weather impeded growth as the ground remained fertile prior to the fall that condemned humanity to toil in labor.
Yet, it is said, "And the fruitful tree that yields fruit, whose seed is within itself after its kind." At this instruction, the bushes thickened, and trees recognized for their height—firs, cedars, cypresses, and all varieties—burst forth from the soil. They flourished alongside thornless roses, myrtles, and laurels, previously unseen and now manifest, each possessing innate qualities that set them apart, instantly identifiable by unique characteristics. However, it is noted that the rose was thornless at that time, soon to wear prickling thorns alongside its beauty, a reminder of the sin that condemned the earth to produce "thorns and thistles" (Genesis 3:18).
Some will inquire, "The earth is directed to bring forth a fruitful tree that bears fruit, and yet many trees yield neither fruit nor seed." The answer lies in the acknowledgment that those plants highlighted are inherently preferable, and scrutiny reveals that all flora possesses either seeds or equivalents. Trees like rushes, willows, elms, and poplars seemingly have little fruit; however, diligent examination uncovers their hidden seeds. Even rootless trees can reproduce abundantly, while gardeners propagate varieties through root divisions. Primarily, it is stated, those trees deserving mention are those most beneficial to our lives and capable of sustaining us with their abundant yields. Such are the grapes that produce wine, said to "gladden a man's heart," and the olive tree, which yields fruit to "anoint the face with oil" (Psalms 103:15).
What variety abounds! The vine's roots, sprawling branches, buds curling forth, green berries, and ripe clusters manifest rapidly. With a glance, the vine evokes the image of the Lord, who calls Himself "the vine" and His Father "the farmer," urging each of us to bear fruit and avoid judgment (John 15:1-6). He parallels human souls to vines, for it is written, "the vine was to the beloved in the rose, in a place of fatness," and "I will plant the vineyard, and fence it" (Isaiah 5:1, 2). It is evident that by the vine, He refers to human souls, which He has surrounded with a protective hedge of commandments and guardians. The "angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him" (Psalms 33:8), serving as a fortified command against evil.
As if encircling us, "He places in the church first apostles, second prophets, and third teachers" (1 Corinthians 12:28). Through ancient examples, He elevates our thoughts, inspiring us to weave connections of love and to aspire toward the divine heights, much like grapevines intertwining. He encourages us to endure the pruning process, shedding worldly burdens that weigh heavily on our hearts. Thus, one who sheds desires for earthly gain and recognizes the futility of pursuing fleeting glory shall renew strength, casting aside the trivialities of worldly wisdom. According to the parable’s teachings, do not live superficially for glory's sake, but labor sincerely, rendering tangible proofs of good works to the true Vinedresser. Yet flourish as a "fruitful olive tree in the house of God" (Psalms 51:10), harboring the hope of salvation perpetually through faith. In doing so, you emulate the persistence of the evergreen, engaging abundantly in charity.
THEOSIS