THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
The text conveys that it will be straightforward to count those who endure, yet they will be so fearful and inept at battle that their cowardice will compel them to flee like a gazelle in a desperate bid for self-preservation, refusing even to stand against their adversaries. Furthermore, they will lack leaders and guidance; despite their small numbers, they will resemble sheep that have gone astray without a shepherd, straying far from the safety of their folds. The Gatherer expresses that individuals shall not return to their kin, nor shall they seek refuge in their homeland.
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Instead of being compelled to return, they face persecution, for although everyone cherishes their homeland, the loss of their most beloved possessions will be painful, as anyone captured in their own land will quickly meet destruction by the sword of their oppressors. The prophetic word reveals another source of deep sorrow: their children shall be slain before their eyes, their homes ravaged, and their wives taken captive. What could be more agonizing for parents than the death of their children? What could weigh heavier than witnessing their homes plundered and their women’s honor laid waste, sacrificed to the lusts of conquerors? The blessed Psalmist captures this grief well in speaking of the Babylonians: "Blessed is he that taketh and dasheth thy little ones against the stones" (Psalms 136:9). Such calamities befell the land of Assyria, its cities and regions, due to their corruption, idolatry, and pride, becoming grievous transgressors against God and steeped in sorcery. They ravaged the holy city, devastated God’s inheritance—namely, the land of Israel—enslaving its people to the fate of captives and imposing upon them a harsh yoke of servitude. Yet, the prophetic words also possess a deeper significance, transcending mere historical occurrences. They point to the ultimate source of wickedness—Satan, the relentless adversary of God—particularly as the prophetic messages have unveiled the mystery of Christ and foresaw his coming alongside the vision against Babylon, urging listeners to perceive the events related to Babylon and Assyria through a spiritual lens. Thus, the dragon of apostasy continually seeks to undermine those who serve the Lord in countless ways, striving to topple that which pleases Him, often leading individuals into captivity, plunging them into the depths of sin, and imposing upon them a heavy and unending burden of servitude. In this, he is celebrated, just as the Assyrian kings once reveled in the downfall of the Israelites, who found themselves exiled from their homeland and sacred city, enslaved by foreign powers. Nevertheless, the devil’s dominion over his captives is not everlasting. For the Sign of the Savior has emerged, through which we offer victorious hymns to the One who has achieved victory on our behalf, declaring a confession of true faith, calling all to "lift up your voices." The Lord has also summoned a valiant people—a host of saints—whose struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual powers, the rulers of this dark world, and the malevolent spirits in the heavens. These saints confront, overcome, and continue to prevail against hostile forces, dismantling idolatry as if it were a formidable city. They triumph over their enemies because Christ leads them and the holy angels stand beside them. Consequently, those who still tremble at the might of these adversaries are very few—wretched, cowardly, and void of hope against those who serve Christ. Reflecting on the vision and subsequent revelations, let anyone with understanding grasp the layered and intricate messages of wisdom and parables to appreciate this spiritual insight.