THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
Cyril. Moreover, when more precisely identifying these afflictions, the scripture states: And if there arises a suspicion or assumption that leprosy has manifested in a blistered wound or in an area of the body that has previously been burned, the priest must once again exhibit the same level of diligence and scrutiny. Should the white that appears to flourish not develop into leprosy, it is then declared that all is well. However, if the white shows signs of transforming into leprosy, he will be deemed unclean and contaminated (Leviticus 13:18-28). The Law also instructs us here that spiritual ailments, which are countless, may have been alleviated by living righteously, but may also become reactivated through our negligence.
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In such cases, Christ, our great High Priest, will assess these conditions and render an appropriate judgment. For if the ailment resides solely in thoughts, even then the afflicted individual is not considered innocent: they are designated as excommunicated (Leviticus 13:26), yet they are not entirely cast aside, nor are they spiritually dead. Conversely, if the affliction extends beyond mere thoughts and into desires, causing a complete degeneration for the worse, then the penalty for this defilement must be imposed. Therefore, we must exercise great caution to prevent the rekindling of sinful passions, to avoid reopening spiritual wounds, and to refrain from reverting to prior vices. Otherwise, we shall inevitably hear the saint proclaiming, ‘But it happens to them according to the faithful proverb: the dog returns to his vomit, and: the washed pig goes to wallow in the mud’ (2 Pet. 2:22). Palladium. I believe you are speaking correctly and quite fittingly in this regard.