Cyrill of Alexandria
Cyril explains that the same principle applies to both sheep and goats, with a shared sacrificial rite carried out for both. The disparity in the size of these animals serves as a striking symbol of the devotion and honor of the individuals making the offering. The calf represents a bountiful and commendable offering, indicative of exceptional piety, while the sheep signifies a more modest offering. The goat, being smaller, represents an even lesser form of contribution. This aligns with the parable in the Gospel where the fruitful soil yields returns of 'a hundred,' 'sixty,' and 'thirty' (Matt. 13:8, 23). Palladius concurs.