THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
This text reveals the reasons for the predicted events, emphasizing the severity and unavoidable disasters that await. It states that fear, the abyss, and the snare lie in wait, suggesting that even if one manages to escape the abyss, they will still be ensnared. What brings about this predicament? The heavens are said to have opened, indicating that God is aware of the actions of those on earth. While He shows patience towards those who persist in wrongdoing, it may appear that He is indifferent, as if heaven were closed off. However, when He assesses the conduct of humanity, it is as if He observes them through opened windows, dispensing judgments based on individual transgressions.
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This leads to widespread confusion and dread, with all earthly inhabitants, akin to those overcome by wine, succumbing to various calamities. The following statements are also noted: "The earth was shaken like a storehouse of vegetables in the fields" and "But iniquity is overcome therein." For while those on the earth engage in tolerable sins, God delays His justice and curbs His anger. Yet, when the overall wickedness becomes unrestrained, it becomes imperative for the Lord to inspect the earth. As iniquity prevails, it is inevitable that the earth will be thrown into turmoil and overwhelmed by every sort of disaster.