THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
For this reason, the inhabitants of the earth will face destruction, leaving only a remnant behind. The earth has been cursed due to the abundance of wickedness, which results in sudden destitution, causing many to struggle for salvation; indeed, only a small number will endure. While attention has previously focused on the literal interpretation and external events, we reiterate the deeper meaning: those who stand condemned before God's throne due to their numerous transgressions will face total ruin. They lack the greater blessings and are stripped of the hope reserved for the faithful, ultimately descending into torment. In contrast, a remnant will remain—those who have found favor with God through their righteousness and have accumulated the treasures of good works. This remnant will indeed be scarce, as the Savior reminds us: "Many are called, but few are chosen" (Matt. 22:14).
The prophetic message once more highlights the importance of clarity. To prevent any misunderstanding that the Almighty punishes others without cause, the reasons behind His wrath are presented alongside the manifestations of that wrath, making clear the sins of those being judged. Consequently, the earth is mourning. Why is this? Because they have violated the divine law and broken the eternal covenant. Thus, He declares, Cursed shall be the earth because you have sinned against those who inhabit it. Since the land of the Jews, like other nations, was in need of judgment (for it lay desolate, as previously mentioned), it appears that the prophet again reveals the transgressions of those who were bound by the law.
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He notes that the Israelites disregarded the law, as if turning away and instead heeding the teachings and commandments of men. Nonetheless, speaking more broadly, we recognize that at the beginning, God created humanity and inscribed upon them the natural law, which instructs in the discernment of good and evil. This seems to align with what John conveys about the only begotten Son of God: "He was the true light, which enlighteneth every man that cometh into the world" (John 1:9). We believe this also pertains to the latter days, specifically at the coming of Christ, as it is stated, "In those days, saith the Lord, I will give laws in their thoughts, and on their hearts I will write them" (Jer. 31:33). This inherent law, which directs us towards understanding good and evil, was transgressed by the people of the earth, and the commandments were perverted; originally intended for good works, they became focused on worldly and fleshly desires. Therefore, the earth was cursed, for those who inhabited it had sinned greatly against their Creator.