He shall dwell on high, the fortifications of rocks shall be his highness: bread is given him, his waters are sure.
ה֚וּא מְרוֹמִ֣ים יִשְׁכֹּ֔ן מְצָד֥וֹת סְלָעִ֖ים מִשְׂגַּבּ֑וֹ לַחְמ֣וֹ נִתָּ֔ן מֵימָ֖יו נֶאֱמָנִֽים׃
4 Church Fathers comment on this verse
It is declared that he will reside on high; his shelter is found in the steadfast cliffs, symbolizing security, ensuring he will not easily fall victim to the evil. He will receive nourishment, and his supply of water will remain constant. His plentiful desires are beyond reach and remain unwavering. What does he truly deserve?
The prophet clearly indicated that those filled with malice towards Christ would descend into hell for punishment, facing the torment of unquenchable flames. He further clarifies who will receive eternal life and, in due season, will be enriched with gifts that are undeniably divine and spiritual. He describes the one who walks in righteousness—this is someone who upholds justice and leads a life of virtue; one who speaks truthfully, ensuring that their words promote righteousness; one who despises injustice and is free from greed, which is the adversary of receiving gifts.
This person turns their ear away from shedding innocent blood and avoids gazing upon unrighteousness: such an individual will reside in a secure refuge, akin to a solid rock, for they will find safety and stability in all that they desire. It is likely that the rock symbolizes our Lord Jesus Christ, where the Church is envisioned as a stronghold, enjoying a safe and unshakeable existence in times of prosperity. For as the Saviour states, "You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it" (Matthew 16:18). To those who inhabit this rock, he assures that they will receive bread and pure water, as those within the Church are granted by God the Father the bread of life, Christ (John 6:35), along with the pure water of holy baptism, which strengthens those who accept it (for the grace of holy baptism is bestowed upon those who have been purified through it).
Should Hezekiah, a man of integrity, articulate his thoughts correctly… he will be provided with sustenance and his needs will be met. Due to his genuine devotion and moral character, God granted Hezekiah the blessings of the land and a plentiful supply of water.
The term "bread" symbolizes the full teaching, as Paul indicates by encouraging the weak towards repentance, stating, "I have fed you with milk, and not with solid food: for ye were not yet able, neither are ye now able" (1 Cor. 3:2). Just as milk serves as nourishment for infants, bread is intended for those who are mature. Therefore, it is said of the strength of the perfected individual: "He shall dwell on the heights, his refuge is the impregnable rocks, bread is given him."
Passages read together with this verse.
THEOSIS