THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
Cyril. To make a more precise distinction regarding these afflictions, the law states: "And if there be suspicion and supposition that leprosy has appeared either in a blistered wound, or in a part of the body once burnt, let the priest again apply the same care and observation. And if the seemingly blossoming white has not changed into leprosy, then let it be clear, it is said. But if the white appearing to change into leprosy, he shall be unclean and defiled" (Leviticus 13:18-28). The Law thus teaches us that spiritual weaknesses, which are countless, can be healed through a righteous life. However, if through our negligence they are allowed to resurface, Christ, our great High Priest, will assess them and deliver a just verdict.
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If the affliction has manifested only in thoughts, then the individual is not without fault: he is considered excommunicated (Leviticus 13:26), though not entirely cast away or dead. Yet, if the affliction has progressed beyond mere thoughts to desires, resulting in a complete deterioration of the individual, then the penalty for defilement must be imposed. Therefore, we must exercise great caution against reviving dormant passions, to avoid reopening spiritual wounds and reverting to former sins. Otherwise, we may find ourselves echoing the words of the saint: “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 Peter 2:22). Palladium. I believe your observations are both correct and quite pertinent.