Thus, it is stated that the cries of the needy reach Him, and He listens to the distress of the poor. For while they immerse themselves in earthly distractions, they abandon their preaching duties, which leads the flock under their care to cry out in despair. Consequently, those whom they lead lament the actions of their supposed shepherd, who, for whatever reason, takes on the role of a teacher yet neglects his ministry.
Additionally, ‘the arrogance of strong men’ may highlight the hubris of the Jewish people, while ‘the cry of the poor’ signifies the Gentiles. For instance, ‘the rich man indulging in luxury’ as noted in Luke 16:19-31 illustrates the Jewish nation, who exploit the fullness of the Law not for salvation, but to inflate their pride, failing to renew themselves with the teachings of the commandments and instead showcasing their knowledge boastfully. The suffering Lazarus symbolizes the plight of the Gentiles, who, through Divine assistance, are uplifted precisely when they abandon reliance on their own strength. He is depicted as poor and afflicted, reflecting the Gentile world that humbly acknowledges its transgressions. Just as pus exits a wound during healing, revealing underlying issues when sin is confessed, so too does their bad disposition emerge from within. When they transgress, the plea of the poor is voiced; for while the Jews stand proudly against God, the supplications of the Gentiles reach Him. Thus, overwhelmed by the vastness and unfathomable nature of these judgments, he refrains from delving into arguments, striving instead to revere them with awe and proclaims:
THEOSIS