THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
It is customary for the holy prophets to convey divine truths from the particular benefits of a select few to those that are universal and more widely recognized. These benefits pertain to Christ. Thus, we find the essence of this proclamation distilled into a singular truth. Indeed, when is the earth truly granted its deserving boldness? Or, ‘when hath the Lord magnified what He hath done’? Was it not when the Word, who is God, chose to become man, allowing Him to enrich the heavenly realms with abundant gifts? In doing so, He became a river of peace for all who believe, a source of joy, an early and latter rain, and the bestower of all spiritual abundance.
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It was during this time that even the most simple-minded—often referred to as 'Polish cattle'—found a certain spiritual nourishment in the teachings of those who guide; ‘then the fields of the wilderness were withered’. The Church refers to the wilderness in accordance with the scripture: ‘Rejoice, thirsty desert, let the desert rejoice, and let it blossom like a crin’ (Isaiah 35:1). Their ‘fields’ symbolize the leaders of humanity, those who, through divine grace, cultivate the spirit, causing it to flourish with the vibrant colors of doctrine and adorned with fresh life. They inspire the spirits of those who have stumbled, lifting them to a level of understanding suited to humanity. It was also said that ‘the tree brings forth its fruit, the grapes and the figs give their strength,’ drawing a parallel between the fruitful figs and grapes and the profound teachings of those in authority, which contain sweetness along with an element of joy.
However, it is only fair that we also provide simplified teachings to the more naive and those marked by ignorance, akin to the knowledge suitable for livestock, which appears grounded and simple, resembling grass in both form and meaning. For those who are already perfected, the teachings become elevated and abundant, concerning the holy, consubstantial Trinity or moral guidance that is offered as if from a higher place. For this reason, they are referred to as cattle, whereas the children of Zion are seen as more mature, to whom He commands to rejoice in the Lord our God, for the joy of our spirit is found in Christ, from whom all abundance of blessings flows, and the giving of heavenly gifts to those who cherish Him, imagined as early and late rains, wheat spilling from the threshing floor, wine overflowing the cup, and oil that flows in abundance. It must be noted that this promise also holds true in the context of sacramental fulfillment: the living water of holy baptism is bestowed upon us as rain, in the form of wheat—animal bread—and as wine—His blood. The application of oil is also included, fulfilling the perfection made possible in Christ through holy baptism.