THEOSISBeda Venerabilis
The waters surged and elevated the ark, raising it high above the land; the waters swelled greatly across the earth (Genesis 7:17-19). In a similar manner, the abundant waters of baptism and faith have lifted the Church globally from its yearning for worldly matters to its hope and aspiration for eternal life in heaven. Consequently, as these waters, which bring significant trials upon the Church, increase on earth, they elevate her further in pursuit of the blessings of the life to come. This principle is clearly illustrated in sacred history, where it states that the Amorites oppressed the descendants of Dan in the mountains, not allowing them to descend into the valley.
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The term Amorite signifies bitterness, while Dan translates to ‘judge.’ Therefore, who are the descendants of Dan in this context but those who act with wisdom, uphold righteousness, study the Scriptures, and, guided by the light of God's Word, commit to His justice? Conversely, who are referred to as the Amorites but those who, due to the bitterness of the hardships imposed upon them, seek to sour the flavor of life, or even to ultimately destroy the lives of the pure? As the Amorites oppressed the descendants of Dan in the mountains, preventing them from descending into the valley. When such a severe period of persecution afflicts the chosen, it is not appropriate for them to succumb to fear; rather, they should cultivate self-discipline, engage in ceaseless prayer, observe fasts, and reflect on the teachings of Divine Scripture, for they can only overcome the significant trials they face through continuous growth in virtue.