THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
Yet, a certain distinction exists; namely, those who are holier and more virtuous are regarded as the closest to God. Although all share the same faith in Christ, believers differ in their morals and lives, as the blessed Apostle Paul noted, ’one in one way, another in another’ (1 Cor. 7:7). Consequently, those who surpass others in their commitment to a devout life are honored first in the divine catalog and in God's remembrance, while those with lesser degrees of holiness due to diminished virtue occupy a secondary position. It is noteworthy that the initial census includes all males aged twenty and above, representing individuals who are wise, brave, and mature enough to fulfill what pleases God. This has been sufficiently addressed.
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In the subsequent censuses, in accordance with divine decree, all males from the tribe of Levi and the larger population are included—though not indiscriminately, since only the firstborn from one month old and older are counted. When seeking to acknowledge courage and wisdom, which are evident in Christ, the census encompasses those of physical maturity. It is also vital to specify that the census reflects faith and love for Christ, showing a distinction among believers: some accept faith while also practicing holiness in their deeds and obedience to God, whereas others fulfill sanctification partially, allowing worldly concerns to intervene. Thus, the Lawgiver rightfully prescribes that the sacred be prioritized over the unsanctified, establishing their precedence in the census. Hence, the Levitical lineage is cited first, followed by the male sex and the firstborn. With God, those possessing spiritual courage and alignment with Christ, who is the firstborn, hold great significance (Rom. 8:29). In this context, the blessed Apostle Paul addresses those faltering in faith, saying, ‘My children, for whom I am again in the throes of birth, until Christ is formed in you!’ (Gal. 4:19).
Therefore, anyone who embodies the firstborn in the likeness of Christ, as a male, and is distinguished by wisdom, is accepted into God's record. However, as previously mentioned, among the other tribes, not all males are counted indiscriminately—only the firstborn are noted, since not all differ in faith and adherence to Christ; many remain unbelieving. It is only the firstborn that are recorded on account of Him who is firstborn among many brethren (Rom. 8:29). Conversely, within Levi's lineage, every male is included in the census and general record, reflecting that what is holy is fully belonging to God. Individuals from one month and older are considered, as God does not reject spiritual infancy, which is characteristic of believers; youthful simplicity reflects nascent faith in Christ. Just as we observed that men deemed ready for battle were counted from the age of twenty and above, we assert that one month signifies early spiritual growth in Christ. Similarly, Paul advises, ‘Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be infants, but in understanding be mature’ (1 Cor. 14:20).
Thus, it must be understood that we shall share in the endeavors accomplished by the saints who act with courage and strive significantly for the attainment of honor. Certainly, possessing divine gifts acquired through their arduous efforts and countless good deeds, they also enrich us with the blessings bestowed upon them by God's love. Likewise, the blessed Apostle Paul communicates with those who have come to believe, stating: ‘For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you’ (Romans 1:11). Would it not be considered a heavenly gift, a spiritual blessing, a perfect and unwavering understanding of God, and an accurate knowledge of the highest good?
Take note, Palladius, especially of this subtle observation: the individuals counted in the census were those aged twenty and older, as I believe the legal accuracy does not warrant inclosing the weak and powerless within God’s record; naturally, older and more spiritually mature persons rightly belong among saints. The law equates physical age with spiritual maturity, selecting those who have reached full spiritual bloom while excluding the immature and feeble from the sacred record. For the Lord eagerly accepts the spiritual infancy of the chosen, valuing their discernment as well; it is commendable to be recognized for both wisdom and simplicity in Christ. Thus, the divine Apostle asserts: ‘Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be infants, but in understanding be mature’ (1 Corinthians 14:20). Christ Himself also advises, ‘Be wise as serpents, and innocent as doves’ (Matt. 10:16). Therefore, the simplicity of the saints is indeed pleasing to God.