THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
Observe here the profound mystery and the prophetic symbolism of forthcoming occurrences. After the midwife had tied a crimson thread around the infant's hand to signify him, he ‘returned his hand; and, behold, his brother came forth,’ which signifies that he permitted his brother to emerge (from the womb); thus, the one who was expected to be last came out first, while the one anticipated to be first emerged later. ‘And she said, ‘How hast thou broken the barrier to thyself?’ His name was called Phares,’ signifying cutting off or separation. Following this, ‘his brother went out,’ marked on his right hand; ‘And his name was called Zara,’ meaning east.
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This occurrence was not mere happenstance, but rather a representation of future realities; it is evident that this took place outside the natural order. How could the hand bound with the crimson thread retract and allow another passage unless divine intervention had ordained it? It is as if a prophetic vision foresaw from the beginning that Zara, representative of the Church, would emerge; and as he advanced briefly and then retreated, the observance of the law (symbolized by Phares) commenced. After a considerable period, the one who originally withdrew re-emerged, namely, Zara, Zara, and thus the entire Jewish order transitioned to the Church. It may be necessary to reiterate this to you in simpler and clearer terms. Just as Zara initially stretched out his hand, Noah and Abraham, and before Noah, Abel and Enoch, diligently sought to please God. However, as humanity multiplied, they amassed numerous sins and required some form of guidance; thus, the law was instituted not to erase sins, but to illuminate them for the people, akin to how young children are nourished with milk, guiding them toward maturity in faith. Yet, when they neglected this guidance and continued to burden themselves with sins, the Lord, who is shared by all, manifested on earth, providing humankind with a spiritual and complete formation, which Zara symbolizes. Hence, the evangelist references Tamar and her offspring, stating, ‘Judas begat Phares and Zara of Tamar’ (Matt. 1:3). Let us therefore not overlook the teachings within the sacred Scriptures nor skim over their messages; rather, let us delve into their profound wisdom and acknowledge the richness they contain, praising our Lord, who orchestrates all with such immense insight.