At the voice of the angel the people fled, and at the lifting up thyself the nations are scattered.
מִקּ֣וֹל הָמ֔וֹן נָדְד֖וּ עַמִּ֑ים מֵר֣וֹמְמֻתֶ֔ךָ נָפְצ֖וּ גּוֹיִֽם׃
3 Church Fathers comment on this verse
This does not imply that God possesses a voice in a literal sense; rather, a voice is an attribute of the physical body, arising from the different parts that compose it. However, this phrase conveys the notion of complete and effortless triumph.
The severe punishment will undoubtedly befall the Israelites who reject and do not embrace faith in Christ, a fate foretold by the law of Moses and echoed by the proclamations of the holy prophets. Christ Himself declared: When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then they will begin to say to the mountains, Cover us; and to the hills, Fall on us (Luke 21:20; Luke 23:30). Consequently, He speaks of the fear that invokes terror among men. They were overcome with dread. But in what manner did this fear seize them? I suggest it was due to the immense nature of their affliction, as unbearable trials can drive individuals to madness.
However, if one seeks to comprehend these horrors differently, this expression could also signify being made strangers in their own land, leading to their scattering among all nations. Thus far we touch upon the words of the holy prophets. Subsequently, it is declared in the name of God, clearly addressing those who are broken and dispersed, that now your treasures, both small and great, shall be gathered. He assures them that their deliverance will not come after a long wait, but rather, they will face immediate devastation, both great and small. Those who lay waste to you will collect you as one would gather swarms of locusts in a field, not through toil or effort but as a mere pastime. It may be noted that Israel underwent a spiritual equivalent, being surrendered to Satan and unclean spirits, as if they were foes plundering and amusing themselves with them like locusts.
Through the sound of Your reverence, the nations were shaken, and due to Your splendor, they were dispersed. In this way, with joy in their hearts, those who once pleaded for relief from their sufferings now proclaim.
Passages read together with this verse.
THEOSIS