THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
We affirm that the thousands of Judas refer to the holy Apostles, chosen by Christ to act as leaders, who have received the calling to govern Judas, which signifies praise. The term Judas itself means praise. These individuals may represent the Gentiles, to whom the divine poet entrusted the mission of glorifying Emmanuel, proclaiming in the Spirit: "Bless the Gentiles of our God, and hear the voice of His praise" (Psalms 65:8). In this context, Judah symbolizes those summoned by faith to offer praise and confession, with the thousands overseeing them represented as the rulers and leaders, the divine disciples.
Read more (329 words)
They are seen urging the worshippers of the Saviour, akin to soldiers: "But gird up your loins with the truth, and put on the armour of righteousness, and shoe your feet for the gospel of peace: and over all receive the shield of faith, wherein ye can quench all the darts of the evil one" (Eph. 6:14-16).
Thus, the thousandfold representation rightly points to the divine disciples. In their hearts, they declare, "We shall find for ourselves those who dwell in Jerusalem," for they desired that the truly holy Jerusalem, which signifies the Church, be filled with worshippers, flourishing as a city with a renowned population. Consequently, they preached the faith, sharing the good news of Jesus and confirming their messages with signs and wonders. However, they faced resistance, as the people remained obstinate and unyielding like an untamed horse. Finally, they sought the inhabitants of the holy city "in the Lord their God Almighty," that is, in Christ, and turned to the Gentiles, addressing the people of Judaea: "It is better for you to speak the word of God first: but since you have rejected it, and are not worthy to make yourselves worthy of eternal life, let us turn to the Gentiles: for thus the Lord commanded us" (Acts 13:46-47). From there, they sought the citizens of the Church, as the divine David reminded them with the words: "Glorious things have been spoken of you, O city of God" (Psalm 86:3).
As they searched, they became prosperous and gathered a countless multitude. Now they address the holy city: "Enlarge the place of thy tent, and of thy coverings, build it up, spare not, lengthen thy cords, and strengthen thy stakes; for thou shalt break forth on the right hand and on the left" (Is. 54:2-3). He rejoices in the abundance of his inhabitants and, marveling at the gathering of his children, states: "But I am a fatherless and a widow; where are these to me?" (Is. 49:21).