THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
Let all gather together, united in purpose, feeling a collective shame for their actions. The craftsman has expertly shaped the wood, crafting it with care, utilizing a bowstring and a rod, showcasing the strength of his labor. Yet, this created object will ultimately consume and satisfy, yet it thirsts and cannot quench its own need for water. It is not merely individuals who will be shamed, but in large numbers, the servants of false idols will face humiliation due to their foolishness, leading to the destruction of their offerings. This is akin to what is observed; for he says, “nostri,” referring to the creators of these idols. He also highlights the tools employed in this process to illustrate that they are venerating human craftsmanship rather than the substance of the wood.
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If it were indeed God, there would be no requirement for artistic skills or knowledge; He would simply be God. However, when one venerates a crafted tree rather than recognizing it as mere material, and claims it to be divine, then creation itself has become their god, inadequately fashioned by a frail and mortal being, subject to decay. The need for sustenance and refreshment is a clear indication of this decay. Therefore, the phrase “He shall not drink of water” is more properly interpreted as a question rather than an assertion, potentially implying that it will indeed quench thirst. How can the perishable forge the imperishable, or how can the mortal impose creation upon the everlasting? According to divine truths, it is intrinsically characteristic of God to be eternal and indestructible, endowed with life and the divine authority to breathe life into whomever He chooses. Thus, the misguided worship acts as a testament to the tools of the tradesman and the artistry involved, for, as I maintain, they would not choose to honor an unsightly tree or stone; yet once an image is formed, all tangible objects become deified in their sight.