THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
And the Moabites will be subdued as they are trampled underfoot, much like chariots rushing over a river. He will extend His hands, having humbled those who brought destruction, and He will abase the proud one upon whom His hand was laid. The lofty defenses of your stronghold will be brought low, reduced to the ground. The pronouncements of the holy prophets resonate with profound depth, often conveying meaning in a subtle and concealed manner. It is vital to recognize that the surface of these writings may not always reflect the fundamental truth; rather, one must seek the significance embedded in the text. The Moabites were neighbors to the Israelites, deeply entrenched in error and idols.
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By stating that Moab will be crushed, just as the river is trampled, the prophet indicates that following Christ’s coming and the invitation of the Gentiles into the sacred mystery, their sanctification through faith will ultimately eradicate shameful idolatry and exorcise Satan, who will be cast beneath the feet of the faithful. For He has granted us authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy (Luke 10:19). These words may refer either explicitly to Moab's idolatry or, more broadly, to all forms of false worship. Thus, it is declared that it shall be trampled down like grain by those who thresh. He shall lift His hands, figuratively speaking, and humble Himself for destruction. Who lifts His hands? It is the architect of idolatry, the father of lies, who diverts humanity from God, namely Satan. He shall raise His hands, indicating that all his strength and influence will be vanquished, as hands symbolize authority. Just as He has humbled the inhabitants of the earth to total ruin, so too will Christ bring down his arrogance and overpowering influence, which he has imposed on all—effectively spreading his dominion over creation intended for good works. The prophetic statement then shifts again, addressing either the Moabite realm or its vile idolatry, proclaiming that the lofty defenses of your stronghold shall be humbled. The 'lofty defenses' points to the chief of idols and deceit, who has fortified it against resistance. However, the prophecy declares his impending fall. For Christ will dismantle and annihilate it completely, down to the ground. Historical events reveal the fulfillment of these predictions, as temples have crumbled, and all that was housed within them has been cast away. There remain no more altars or sacrifices, nor magical practices and false entertainments. All these have been eradicated by Christ, and to those on earth, the light of truth has shone brightly; the sun of righteousness has risen, bringing joy to the hearts of believers in Him.