THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
Cyril states that in making a more precise distinction regarding these afflictions, the law articulates: If there is a suspicion or assumption that leprosy has manifested either in a blistered sore or in a previously burned area of the body, the priest must once again exercise caution and careful observation. If the seemingly flourishing white does not develop into leprosy, it is so declared. However, if the white begins to evolve into leprosy, the individual is deemed unclean and contaminated (Leviticus 13:18-28).
Read more (169 words)
The Law instructs us that spiritual maladies, which are countless, can be alleviated through a righteous life. Yet, if through carelessness, they are potentially reawakened, Christ, our supreme High Priest, will scrutinize these conditions and issue a just judgment. If the affliction affects only thoughts, the individual is not deemed innocent; he is regarded as being excommunicated (Leviticus 13:26), but he is not entirely forsaken, nor is he spiritually dead. Conversely, if the malady transcends mere thoughts to include desires, and if the person afflicted has experienced a significant decline, then punishment for impurity must be exacted. Therefore, it is imperative that we are particularly vigilant not to allow dormant passions to resurface, thus reopening spiritual wounds and reverting to past sins. Otherwise, we may hear the Apostle lamenting, "But it happens to them according to the faithful proverb: the dog returns to his vomit, and the washed pig goes back to wallow in the mud" (2 Peter 2:22).
Palladium responds that this insight is both accurate and timely.