THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
Asher signifies ‘blessing,’ reflecting the essence of the name. This can be interpreted as pointing to Him “in Whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Col. 2:3), referring to Christ, who is “the treasure hidden in the field” (Matt. 13:44) and the “precious beads” (Matt. 13:46). The image of wisdom clearly states, “I have riches and glory, an undefiled treasure and righteousness” (Proverbs 8:18). He is also the One who visits the earth, as expressed by David: “You enrich it abundantly” (Psalm 64:10). The wise Paul similarly writes: “I thank my God for you continually, for the grace of God which is given to you in Christ Jesus, because in Him you have been enriched in all things, in every word and in all knowledge” (1 Cor. 1:4-5).
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He humbled Himself, for “He, being rich, became poor for your sakes, that you might be enriched by His poverty” (2 Cor. 8:9). Here we see the notion of “fat bread,” which is both rich and nourishing; for our Lord Jesus Christ nourishes us not with mere bread as He did for the Israelites but with Himself, implanting His presence in the hearts of believers through the Holy Spirit. He declared to the Jewish people, “Truly I say to you, Moses did not give you bread from heaven, but my Father gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world” (John 6:32-33). He also declares, “I am the bread of life” (Jn. 6:35). Perhaps we can understand Him as the life-giving bread, also nourishing the heavenly beings. Indeed, Thrones, Dominions, and the ranks of Angels and Archangels find sustenance in Christ. Nonetheless, this must be comprehended accurately. Additionally, He provides spiritual nourishment to earthly shepherds, revealing the mysteries of God and imparting knowledge of all virtues, so they might guide their flocks to eternal life. Hence, He instructs them: “freely you have received, freely give” (Matthew 10:8). He further asks, “Who is the faithful and prudent servant whom his master set over his servants, to give them food in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his master finds acting in this way when he comes; truly I tell you, he will put him over all his possessions” (Matthew 24:45-47; Luke 12:42-44). This defines the role of the Church's teachers and the holy Apostles before them. The blessed Paul conveys in his letter: “for I am very desirous to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift for your confirmation” (Rom. 1:11). They convey that their comfort comes from God, as He abundantly blesses them and grants them gifts through the Spirit. Consequently, Asher symbolizes Christ or those enriched by Him, for whom He also embodies the idea of “fat bread.”