For such individuals, the pursuits of this life appear to be pleasant and offer solace in their endeavors. They feel exhausted when these worldly matters elude them, draining them of vitality.
Given that worms are constantly in motion, one might rightly associate the restless thoughts of the unrighteous with ‘worms.’ Thus, for the wicked soul, “The worm is its sweetness,” as it finds nourishment from the very source that perpetuates its unrest. It is also possible that the term ‘worm’ signifies the decay of the flesh. Hence, it is asked, “How much less is man, who is like rottenness, or a son of man who is like a worm?” The folly of those consumed by lust and indulging in the pleasures of the flesh is clearly evident in the declaration, “The worm is his sweetness.” What else is our flesh but mere ‘rottenness’ and ‘worm’? For anyone who harbors fleshly desires is, in essence, nurturing a love for ‘the worm.’ Our physical state serves as a witness to this truth. What parent or devoted friend can bear to touch once-beloved flesh that is now filled with decay?
Therefore, when one finds the flesh appealing, it is crucial to contemplate what that flesh ultimately becomes in death, and grasp what it is that one loves. For nothing curbs the cravings of carnal desire more than a reflection on the fate of what one loves while alive. In contemplating the decay of the flesh, it becomes evident that desiring the flesh also means desiring its corruption. Hence, the mindset of the lustful is aptly summarized: “The worm is his sweetness,” for one who is tormented by the fires of fleshly desire yearns for the stench of decay. As previously indicated at the beginning of this discussion, I have concisely touched upon these points to prepare for the more profound mysteries that will be explored in the subsequent parts, God willing.
THEOSIS