THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
Cyril asserts that the offering we present represents the purification that occurs through Christ's sacrifice; the commitment and dedication we make signify a life devoted to God's holiness. It is essential for the law to reveal that the innocent will be accepted in this act of worship. Certain sacrifices symbolize Christ’s death on our behalf, while others indicate our lives being surrendered to God, thus indicating that the innocent shall indeed be unscathed. Christ Himself is without fault, having "created no sin" (1 Pet. 2:22). However, those of us who are still tainted by sin and unrighteousness cannot be received by God.
Read more (329 words)
As stated in Leviticus, the Lord instructed Moses to convey to Aaron, his sons, and all the Israelites: if anyone from Israel or residing among them makes a vow and offers a sacrifice as a burnt offering to secure favor from God, it must be without defect—a male from the herd, sheep, or goats. No injured animal shall be presented, for it will not yield favor. If someone offers a peace offering to the Lord as part of a vow, whether from cattle or smaller livestock, that sacrifice, too, must be flawless for it to be acceptable to God. Animals that are blind, sick, or blemished must not be brought to the altar; a bull or lamb with disproportionate limbs may be offered as a voluntary act, but if given as a vow, it will not please God. Animals that are injured, broken, or torn are also prohibited, whether in your land or as gifts from foreigners, as they too are tainted and unable to secure favor from Him (Lev. 22:17-25).
Notice how the law instructs the Israelites and those who join them, such as proselytes, to closely examine their sacrifices for any blemish. We are to present offerings that are male and without imperfection, reflecting strength and an absence of passion. Any signs of weakness or inner turmoil are completely unacceptable to God. Would you not consider that which bears these flaws as unsanctified? Palladius responds, "How could it be otherwise?" Cyril continues, stating that the weak and feeble are rejected, while the robust, symbolized by the male, becomes pleasing when it possesses chastity. Immanuel exemplifies this as both male and pure, as He is the true power of God and sinless. He also embodies the role of a husband, for the male is generally seen as superior and stronger. However, the Son surpasses all others in excellence and authority over creation, having taken on our form and, as a shepherd, mingled among the sheep for our sake.