THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
The holy prophets traditionally draw from the private treasures of a few and magnify them for the benefit of all. These blessings belong to Christ. Thus, we arrive at a unified understanding of these ideas. When does the earth claim its rightful boldness? Or, when has the Lord truly exalted His deeds? Was it not when the Word, who is God, took on human form so that He could enrich the heavenly realms with abundant gifts? In this way, He becomes a river of tranquility for those who believe in Him, a source of delight, a refreshing rain in both early and later seasons, and the provider of all spiritual growth. In that moment, even the most oblivious among us, referred to as 'Polish cattle', found a certain spiritual nourishment—this comes from the teachings of those who guide.
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Then the barren fields of the wilderness dried up. The Church refers to the desert, echoing the sentiment: ‘Rejoice, thirsty desert, let the desert rejoice, and let it blossom like a garden’ (Isaiah 35:1). Their ‘fields’ symbolize the leaders of humanity and those capable of guiding them, who, through divine gifts from above, cultivate the spirit into a flourishing, aromatic existence adorned with the beauty of doctrines and crowned with vibrant greenery. They inspire the spirits of the lost, drawing them toward a comprehension befitting humankind. He also mentioned that ‘the tree yields its fruit, and the vines and figs draw strength from the vine,’ likening, as I believe, the teachings of those who guide to the sweet fruit of figs and grapes, where sweetness coexists with joy. However, we should also offer those who are less perceptive or hindered by ignorance a simpler teaching, akin to the sustenance found in the earth, which flourishes in those who study just as grass does in both form and essence. To those who have already attained maturity, we present the elevated fruits of fruitful trees regarding the holy and consubstantial Trinity or ethical direction, which is unveiled as if from above. For this reason, they are deemed cattle, and Zion symbolizes the children of the more advanced, whom He encourages to rejoice in the Lord our God, for all our spiritual joy is found in Christ, who is the source of all blessings and the grantor of heavenly gifts to those who love Him. These blessings manifest as early and late rains, grain overflowing the threshing floor, wine that cheers the heart, and oil that flows abundantly. It is crucial to recognize that this promise stands true in the context of sacramental fulfillment: the living water of holy baptism is bestowed upon us like rain; it takes the form of grain—sustenance for life—and it appears as wine—His blood. Additionally, the use of oil is included, which fulfills the completion found in Christ through holy baptism.