Now, let us examine why the deceiver’s bush decays like the flowering vine and the olive tree discards its bloom. If the young vine suffers from a harsh frost, all its lushness can quickly wither away. Similarly, there are those who, after wandering for a long time down sinful paths, begin to seek the way of righteousness; however, before their noble intentions can solidify, they often become entangled in worldly distractions that draw their hearts away from divine love, leaving them in a state of coldness, and any budding virtue within them falters. When one is engaged in earthly endeavors, the heart can grow cold, particularly if inner gifts have not been firmly established.
Therefore, responsibility for external matters, which should meet the needs of others, ought to be entrusted to individuals who possess the maturity to govern themselves and yield to internal virtue. If a feeble person is swayed by authority or engages in external affairs without a secure foundation, they risk toppling like a tree without deep roots, especially if they elevate themselves. The higher they rise without stability, the more catastrophic their fall.
At times, the vine may also dry out not only from cold but from excessive heat, leading to fallen blossoms and withered branches. Often, those who embark on good deeds with impure motives become consumed by the desire for human approval, performing good works fervently in a bid to gain recognition, akin to a momentary heat that robs them of true fruitfulness. This is illustrated by the olive tree, which, when in blossom, can also lose its fruit due to an oppressive mist. Likewise, when individuals who intend to do good allow pride to infiltrate their actions, they cloud their moral clarity, losing sight of their true intentions and forfeiting the rewards of their labor, entangled in the fog of human admiration. This is why Solomon wisely advised, Let us rise early to the vineyards, let us see if the vine blooms, and the blossoms bring forth fruit. Song 7:13. The vines bloom when believers strive for good works; yet they do not “bear fruit” if corrupt influences disrupt their efforts.
Thus, our focus should first lie not in observing the blooming of the vines but in ensuring that the foundation beneath the blossoms is strong enough to yield fruit. It is not praiseworthy when someone simply begins good works; true commendation comes from sustaining those efforts with pure intentions. Frequently, if the right motivation is not preserved, even the most virtuous deeds can diminish in effectiveness. We have seen individuals abandon worldly pursuits only to continue seeking temporal rewards, deceitfully cloaked in the appearance of piety. Once their inner convictions shift to a desire for worldly acclaim, like the olive tree producing blossoms that wither, they become entrapped by their own insatiable desires, engaging in dishonorable dealings and maneuverings against others. At this point, the olive tree sheds its flowers, as it never truly fosters the roots of a virtuous purpose.
It is crucial to remember that such occurrences often befall those who do not pursue God with a singular and pure heart. Consequently, the phrase For the harvest of the deceiver is fruitless must resonate clearly. Although hypocrites may perform good deeds, their endeavors yield no reward intended for eternal life. They appear abundant and thriving in the eyes of others, yet, behind the divine veil, they remain barren. Aligned with the fever of greed, they amplify their deeds publicly, driven by the desire for recognition from peers. Thus, it is fitting to add, And fire shall consume the tents of those eager for reward. Job 15:34.
As the body resides in a dwelling, so too does the mind linger in thought. Yet, ‘fire shall devour the tents’ signifies the destruction wrought by unchecked desires. Often, hypocrites may refuse material gifts, believing this to enhance their stature; however, they fail to realize that they have accepted a reward in the form of public acclaim. A gift can emerge either from physical generosity or spoken commendation. While they might shun tangible rewards necessary for sustenance, they fervently pursue the honor of verbal accolades. As their longing for recognition ignites a feverish heat within, it rightly follows that fire shall consume the tents of those eager for rewards.
If we perceive ‘tents’ as the bodies housing souls, the very souls burning with covetousness will ultimately lead to their own condemnation. The mind of a hypocrite is restless, consumed by wicked thoughts, perpetually hunting after material gains or accolades. They envy what others possess, striving to portray themselves as more holy to the world by casting doubt on others' worthiness. In doing so, they manipulate perceptions, ensnaring their neighbors with their words to foster a favorable image for themselves. This leads to further consequences.
THEOSIS