THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
Cyril elaborates, stating: "If you present a bread offering from an oven, it must be unleavened wheat bread mixed with oil, and unleavened cakes oiled as well. If your offering comes from a pan, it should include unleavened wheat flour mixed with oil; it must be broken into pieces and anointed with oil as a bread offering. If the sacrifice originates from a pot, it is also to consist of wheat flour and oil" (Leviticus 2:4-7). Palladius remarks on the profound significance of the law, urging clarity in understanding these intricate matters so that we may fulfill our purpose without hesitation. Cyril acknowledges the remarkable wisdom and prudence within the law, which accommodates every circumstance, graciously accepting even the humblest offerings, thus rendering them sweet and pleasing.
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As Christ affirms: "And whosoever shall give one of these little ones a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward" (Matthew 10:42). A similar sentiment applies here, and we are encouraged to honor the Lawgiver with fitting praise. As I mentioned, the offering is welcome, even when made with modest sacrifices according to the law. Whether the gift is leavened or unleavened, whether offered from an oven, a griddle, or a hearth, or even when made with flour from newly ground grains, the essential requirement is that it be presented with oil and incense. The Scripture seems to guide us toward the glorification of the saints through their endurance, toil, and brokenness; the furnace and the fiery furnace, as well as the grinding of grains, symbolize the trials and labor of those refined by fire. Thus, they have proclaimed on their noble journey: "Thou hast tried us, O God; thou hast refined us as silver is refined" (Psalm 65:10). King David further declares: "A broken and contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise" (Psalm 50:19). It is evident that those who endure such trials will become the aroma of Christ; likewise, they will undoubtedly receive forgiveness and be abundantly refreshed by the Spirit’s grace, as the significance of incense and oil suggests. Indeed, the law serves as a profound indication of the deeper, shadowy truths of our faith. Palladius concurs.