THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
Cyril states that the Scripture instructs, "But if you offer a sacrifice of a bread offering from a baked oven, you shall bring unleavened wheaten bread mixed with oil, and unleavened cakes anointed with oil. If thy sacrifice be an offering of bread from a pan, it shall be unleavened wheat flour mixed with oil; break it into pieces, and pour oil upon it: it is an offering of bread. If thy sacrifice be a bread offering of the pot, it shall be made of wheat flour with oil" (Leviticus 2:4-7). Palladius remarks on the profound depth of the law's meaning. He urges that we delve deeply into these intricate matters to fulfill our intent.
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Cyril emphasizes the wisdom and careful consideration inherent in the law, as it addresses every circumstance, welcomes even the tiniest offerings, and imbues them with a pleasing quality. Indeed, Christ teaches us, "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). This concept is similarly applicable here, elevating the honor of the Lawgiver through praises suitable to Him. The offering is accepted, regardless of whether one fulfills the law's requirements with minimal sacrifices. Whether the gift consists of leavened or unleavened bread, whether it comes from "the oven, or from the griddle, or from the fireplace," or whether it be other grains ground into flour, as long as it is presented with oil and incense, it suffices. These words indicate the honoring of the saints through their trials, efforts, and brokenness; for both the furnace and the fiery trials, along with the milling process, serve as symbols of the hardships and labor endured by those tested as gold is refined. Hence, they proclaim on this dignified journey, "Thou hast tried us, O God; thou hast melted us down, as silver is melted down" (Psalm 65:10). The psalmist David further expresses, "A broken and humble heart will not be despised by God" (Psalm 50:19). It is undoubtedly true that those who have labored in such a manner become a sweet aroma of Christ; similarly evident is the fact that they receive forgiveness and are richly refreshed by the Spirit's grace, as seen through the symbolism of incense and oil. The teachings contained in the law serve as profound revelations of concealed and shadowy truths. Palladius concurs wholeheartedly.