THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
In the morning, after Ephraim was filled with their indulgence through the night, a fiery passion arose. I previously mentioned that Jeroboam, who bore animosity towards God, was filled with dread even while concocting his malevolent schemes. He was rightfully concerned that Israel would be furious if they discovered his intent to disregard his father's traditions. However, when he proclaimed to the people that they should worship the calves, and when they readily accepted his idea, expressing their approval alongside the leaders as if they were making a wise and sound decision, he then shed his fear and suspicion. Ultimately, he became relaxed and filled with joy.
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Thus, he declared, “O Ephraim,” referring to Jeroboam of the tribe of Ephraim, “thou hast slept all night.” This implies that while he once lost sleep over fear and anxiety, he now reveled in comfort, lying on soft beds. Yet, as dawn broke, he was more fervent than anyone else, “burning like a flame of fire,” ignited by the people—not pausing to consider a delay but swiftly moving to fulfill his wicked plans.