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Explanation for:
Matthew
17
:
14
And when he was come to the multitude, there came to him a man falling down on his knees before him, saying: Lord, have pity on my son, for he is a lunatic, and suffereth much: for he falleth often into the fire, and often into the water.
21
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{"arr":[{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Previously, we discussed how the demon, in its gaze upon the moon, brings harm to humanity while attempting to honor the Creator through His creation. However, I believe that the term \\"sleepwalker\\" can be interpreted metaphorically to refer to an individual who fluctuates in their stance toward sin, showing inconsistency in their convictions. At times, they may exhibit strength, yet at others, they falter. They are tossed into the fire that consumes the hearts of those who live indulgently, as noted in Hosea 7, or into the waters that are incapable of extinguishing love."},{"author-name":"Athanasius the Great","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c889457b66f7fc274d1066_Athanasius%20the%20Great.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The moon does not drive individuals to madness. It was not fashioned for malevolence or to harm humanity; rather, it exists to facilitate good and beneficial activities. Its inherent moisture promotes the most restful slumber, and its pale hue softens the night’s darkness. As a counterpart to the sun, which is dry and warm, its coolness and dampness nurture and rejuvenate all forms of plant life during the night, allowing for lush and thriving flora to emerge. Thus, when dawn breaks, we observe trees adorned with thickened leaves, meadows crowned with flowers that produce nectar, the labor of diligent bees, and every blade of grass appears lively while all vegetables shine brightly and flourish. The moon, with its milky complexion, acts like a nurturing mother, aiding in the growth of all living things through its moisture. Positioned in the heavens, it marks the passage of the seasons, the completion of lunar months, and variations in the weather, indicating the rightful time for the true and assured Passover, as it is written: from the moon comes the sign of the feast (Sir. 43:7). Its cycles of waxing and waning give it the name ‘month’ (μὴν). The Book of Genesis affirms: And God said, Let there be light in the firmament of the heavens to illuminate the earth, to divide day from night, and let it serve as signs for seasons, days, and years. And let there be light in the firmament of the heavens to shine upon the earth (Genesis 1:14-15). \\n\\nI feel compelled to emphasize this in your presence, aiming to demonstrate through both deeds and the Holy Scriptures that it is not the moon that induces mental distress but rather the wicked and scheming devil. Out of malice, and unable to lead God’s creations toward deification by any other means, or to force humankind into idol worship, he takes note of the new moon. On the fifth day, he incites the afflicted to thrash about and foam at the mouth, pushing them toward fire or water, causing their families and kin to honor the moon, believing it has inflicted a demon upon the individual. Thus, the Greeks have designated her the queen of heaven, while in truth, she is a servant of the night and not the sovereign of human nature. Accordingly, Jesus, the successor of Moses, commanded the celestial bodies: ‘Let the sun stand still over Gibeon, and the moon over the valley of Aijalon’ (Hab. 10:12) until I have vanquished the five kings of the Amorites. Therefore, if the Lord commands the moon, can it ever assert authority over Him or on His behalf? We must resolutely guard against the deceptive schemes of the usurping serpent, rejecting this Hellenic fallacy and superstition."},{"author-name":"Caesarius of Nazianzus","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88a176e0f4c3aeca7aee3_Caesarius%20of%20Nazianzus.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Question. If celestial bodies neither elevate nor debase humanity, why do the Gospels mention ‘sleepwalkers’ who become deranged, foam at the mouth, and inflict suffering on themselves? Answer. It is said that they become insane with the new moon, an insight familiar to many. This does not align with the conversation we've had. Since the moon, sun, and stars have been revered by those who are condemned, the Lord, in His desire to turn them away from such empty adoration of these heavenly bodies, reveals to some how they are evilly driven mad by the moon, thereby prompting them to fear invoking it and to stray from their faltering faith. The celestial bodies cause no harm to humanity, for Christ, the Creator of all, fashioned them. Yet, the unclean spirit may manipulate the moon in various ways, approaching and tormenting vulnerable and unstable individuals. Often, we notice the dog that attacks us in the night, but we do not attribute the bite to the moon as if it were guiding the dog. At times, a servant, under the full brightness of the moon, escapes quickly, aided by its light. Moreover, we might unjustly hold the moon accountable for acts of immorality; for many fornicators, fearing the night’s darkness, are compelled to remain indoors, while the moon illuminates the night and prompts them to rush along the ground on all fours like a runaway horse, seeking out their object of desire. But let it be clear, the pure spirit (Angel) who follows God’s command to illuminate the heavens is in no way culpable. I implore you to cast aside pagan delusions. Those who easily fall into destruction often associate with demons, not only blaming the celestial bodies for their wrongdoing but also slandering the Creator of those luminaries as the author of evil and ruin. In worshipping the stars, they neglect the reverence owed to God and instead dishonor the Father, which is not of God."},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The Scriptures affirm that this individual exhibited significant weakness in his faith. This is evident in several ways: Christ asserted that “all things are possible to him that believeth” (Mark 9:23); the man himself expressed, “Help my unbelief” (Mark 9:24); Christ also commanded the evil spirit to depart from him forever. Additionally, the man questioned Christ, saying, “If you can do anything.” If unbelief was indeed the reason the evil spirit did not leave, one might wonder why Christ rebuked the disciples. He demonstrated that they had the ability to heal the sick through faith without intermediaries. Oftentimes, the faith of a mediator can suffice to achieve what is requested, even from individuals of lesser faith; likewise, the abilities of a miracle worker can produce miraculous outcomes, irrespective of the faith of those approaching him. Both instances are substantiated by Scripture. The household of Cornelius received the grace of the Holy Spirit through their faith, and Elisha revived a deceased individual even when there was no belief present among those who cast the dead body; their act was not rooted in faith but in fear, as they hastily threw the body out, escaping danger. The resurrection of the deceased was accomplished solely by the power of the holy body. Thus, it is clear that while the disciples displayed some weakness, not all were lacking in faith; the foundational members were steadfast.\\n\\nMoreover, one can observe the man's irrationality through another aspect. He openly brings his complaint to Jesus regarding the disciples before the crowd, stating “I brought him to your disciples, and they could not heal him” (Matthew 17:16). However, Christ redirects the accusations from His disciples towards Himself before the people, reproaching them by proclaiming, “O unfaithful and perverse generation, how long will I be with you” (Matthew 17:17)? By addressing the entire crowd rather than singling out the man, He likely aimed to deter any negative perceptions about the disciples that might have arisen among the onlookers. When He mentions “as long as I am with you,” it indicates that, for Him, death is not a burden but a longing, revealing His desire to depart from this world, thus illustrating that it is not difficult for Him to endure crucifixion, but rather to remain with them. Christ, however, does not merely level accusations; instead, He commands, “Bring him to Me here,” and then inquires of the father about the duration of his son’s suffering, thereby defending the disciples while simultaneously instilling in the father a renewed hope and confidence in the healing of his son. Although the father’s son endures suffering for a time, this is not merely for show; as the crowds start to gather, He restrains the spirit, but this is for the benefit of the father, ensuring that when he witnesses the demon’s distress at Jesus’ command, he may subsequently believe in the miracle that has occurred."},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The Scriptures reveal the frailty of this man's faith, evident in various aspects. Christ proclaimed, “all things are possible to him that believeth” (Mark 9:23), and the man who approached Him admitted, “Help my unbelief” (Mark 9:24). Additionally, Christ's command to the unclean spirit not to return to him underscores this struggle. The man's statement to Christ, “If you can do anything,” further highlights his doubt. You may wonder why Christ rebuked the disciples if the man's lack of faith caused the evil spirit to remain. He demonstrated that they possessed the ability to heal the sick through faith without needing intermediaries. Often, a mediator's faith is enough to secure what one seeks, even from those with weaker faith; miraculous works can occur through the healer, regardless of the faith of those approaching. This principle is supported by Scripture: Cornelius' household received the Spirit due to their faith, and Elisha was able to raise the dead man despite the absence of belief among those present. They had thrown the dead man out of fear rather than faith, emphasizing that the power of the holy body alone brought the man back to life. Thus, while the disciples displayed weakness, not all were lacking; the foundational leaders remained steadfast.\\n\\nMoreover, the unreasonableness of this man is further illustrated by his complaint to Jesus before the crowd, saying, “I brought him to your disciples, and they could not heal him” (Matthew 17:16). In response, Christ redirected the blame from the disciples, instead lamenting, “O unfaithful and perverse generation, how long will I be with you” (Matthew 17:17)? Rather than isolating the man in His rebuke, He addressed the entire Jewish crowd, likely mindful of those who may have been tempted to judge the disciples. By declaring, “as long as I am with you,” He conveys that His departure is a longing, revealing His desire to transition beyond earthly existence and indicating that suffering through crucifixion is less burdensome than continuing to live among them. However, Christ does not limit His response to condemnation; He invites, “Bring him to Me here,” and inquires about the duration of the boy's suffering, thereby shielding the disciples from criticism and instilling in the father a renewed hope and confidence in his son's healing. If the boy must endure suffering, it serves a purpose: as the crowds gathered, Christ commanded the spirit to leave, acting for the father's benefit, so that witnessing the demon's turmoil at the command of Jesus would inspire a true belief in the miracle to come."},{"author-name":"Photios of Constantinople","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89714cf3e65c36024d2b8_Photios%20of%20Constantinople.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":9,"exegesis-text":"Why does the Evangelist refer to those suffering from demonic afflictions as sleepwalkers (cf. Matt. 4:24; Matt. 17:15)? The Evangelist uses the term sleepwalkers for those possessed by demons, not suggesting that the moon is the source of their affliction or providing a justification for being under the influence of such evil. Rather, he aims to articulate the miracles of the Lord in language that resonates with the audience. His intention was not to speak in an elevated style, but to convey the truth in a straightforward manner, which occurs when events are recounted using common language. The choice of this term does not detract from the message of faith. Since many who worshipped celestial bodies would be privy to the Lord’s miracles, he seeks to liberate them from their ancient and misguided beliefs employing expressions they understand. It is as though he proclaims, \\"O people, how can you revere the moon and the sun as deities and benefactors when they bring you such distress, as you yourselves confess, inflicting great harm upon humanity? You should cast aside the moon and other entities that you think lead you to this painful and miserable existence, and instead, render your pure devotion to Him who liberates you from this and countless other afflictions, generously bestowing eternal blessings.\\" Therefore, utilizing familiar terminology does not obstruct pious thoughts. Yet, I have heard some interpret that the Evangelist’s use of sleepwalkers refers to those distinctly separate from demoniacs, arguing that if he meant demoniacs, he would not have also noted ‘sleepwalkers.’ They assert that sleepwalkers are not under demonic influence but suffer from physical ailments arising from the body's corrupted humors, which, they claim, intensify with the full moon. Observers note that many moist creatures, like mollusks, display increased activity during this time, not due to lunar command but because of the divine design of the Creator, who set natural laws in motion. It is said that when the moon's mild heat radiates into our bodies, it disrupts internal fluids, yet is not potent enough to cause complete release and thus remains trapped within. When these fluids become unsettled, they can lead to a condition that exacerbates disturbances in the mind, driving one toward madness, interrupting natural functions, and causing distress. As a result, the populace may label those affected by such conditions as sleepwalkers, and there is nothing to contradict this usage. \\n\\nAnother interpretation suggests that those whom most term sleepwalkers are in fact demoniacs, as the demons seize upon the lunar cycle, intensifying their attacks to manifest the illness, thereby misleading people into perceiving God's benevolent creations as the source of evil, leading to blasphemy against the Creator. However, this explanation does not clarify why the Apostle employed such terminology; it merely informs us of the demons’ heightened influence around the full moon. With much discussed and nothing contrary to sound doctrine, let each individual embrace what resonates with them."},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"This individual seems to have exhibited a profound skepticism, as evidenced by Christ's words, \\"O unfaithful generation,\\" Matthew 17:17, and by his criticism of the disciples. The source of his son's affliction was not the moon, but rather a malevolent spirit; this spirit would strike when the moon was full, intending to bring reproach upon God's creation. As Scripture indicates, every deranged person reflects the moon's phases, fluctuating from great virtue to a diminished state. Thus, he resembles a somnambulist, often thrown into the flames of wrath and desire or submerged in the waters—representative of the myriad earthly anxieties where Leviathan resides—the devil, sovereign over the seas. Are not these waves emblematic of the ceaseless worries of the affluent?"},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"This individual seems to have been quite skeptical, as evidenced by Christ’s response towards him, ‘O unfaithful generation’ (Matthew 17:17), and his reproach towards the apostles. The source of his son's affliction was not the moon, but rather a malevolent spirit; the father anticipated the full moon to unleash the attack on his son, thereby reproaching God's creation as malevolent. It should be noted that every madman, as described in Scripture, waxes and wanes like the moon, experiencing moments of virtue followed by periods of insignificance. In this state, he becomes a somnambulist, potentially thrown into the flames of wrath and desire, or submerged in the tumultuous waters—symbolizing the anxiety and pressures of worldly life, where resides Leviathan—the adversary, who rules over the seas. Are not these waves emblematic of the persistent concerns faced by the affluent?"},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"In the fourth chapter, we previously discussed lunatic afflictions from a physiological perspective. Now, we will elaborate, noting that certain malevolent spirits have been observed to strike at specific lunar phases, leading many to erroneously attribute their calamities to the moon, thereby blaspheming the Creator of the cosmos. Numerous individuals find themselves perilously close to fire or submerged in water; had it not been for the restraining power of God, they would have faced destruction long ago. According to Mark (Mark 9:17-25), the condition of demonic possession was accompanied by both deafness and muteness. This condition was not inherent to the individual but was enforced upon him by the demons that had ensnared his speech and hearing."},{"author-name":"Nicephoros (Theotokis)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8958407451968d9c204fb_Nicephoros%20(Theotokis).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":18,"exegesis-text":"The God-glorifying Apostles did not provide details regarding the origins, homeland, ministry, or status of the man who approached Jesus, knelt before Him, and implored Him to heal his only son, as recorded by the holy Luke (Luke 9:38). We refrained from discussing this matter, deeming it irrelevant to the magnitude of the miracle and the spiritual significance it holds for us. The boy's father came to Jesus Christ, humbly requesting, ‘Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is afflicted by a spirit and suffers greatly.’ The nature of this torment, linked to the cycles of the moon, is briefly noted by the Evangelist Matthew but described in more detail by the Divine Mark, who testifies that, wherever someone is afflicted, they experience convulsions, foam at the mouth, grind their teeth, and become rigid (Mark 9:18). Furthermore, the insightful Luke adds the details of shrieking, foaming, and violent contortions: ‘the spirit seizes him and he suddenly cries out, convulsing him and hardly leaving him, as it crushes him’ (Luke 9:39). Those who witnessed this condition, occurring during the full moon, believed it was the moon that caused the affliction, thus labeling the sufferers as lunatics. However, as Divine Chrysostom pointed out, the lunar cycle is not responsible for such demonic manifestations; rather, the demons, taking advantage of lunar phases, attacked individuals to reveal that the workings of God are often misattributed to their suffering. It is noteworthy that the lunar demonic affliction shares similarities with what medical professionals term an inflammatory disease. The accounts from the two Evangelists regarding these lunar-related afflictions echo the experiences of people suffering from paralysis even today. While physicians explain stupor as a natural occurrence similar to fevers, hysteria, and other ailments—some claiming to have cured such disorders through medical knowledge—it is evident from the Evangelists’ testimonies that the demon was the source of the boy’s lunar affliction. \\n\\nWhat then should we conclude? Firstly, those afflicted with this malady do not merely experience it during the new moon; rather, they may suffer at any time, with some rarely affected and others frequently so. Some may be afflicted monthly, others weekly, daily, or even multiple times a day. Therefore, it can be surmised that while these afflictions may be labeled as lunar disorders or inflammatory diseases, they are not necessarily identical. Secondly, although the new moon's affliction may be perceived as a natural ailment, this does not negate the possibility that the devil tormented the individual described in this Gospel account through such an affliction. By God’s allowance, the devil may cause various natural ailments as a means of human punishment. Deafness and blindness can be considered natural conditions; however, we see that the devil was behind these ailments in the case of the mute and blind man healed by Jesus Christ. Indeed, the sacred Gospel recounts that they brought to Him a man who was unable to speak, possessed by a demon; when the demon was cast out, the mute was able to speak (Matthew 9:32, 33). In another instance, they brought to Him a blind and mute man possessed by a demon, and He healed him, allowing the man to speak and see (Matthew 12:22). Job’s suffering, though apparently natural, was a trial inflicted by the evil one. It is admirable and wise for Christians, when faced with illness, to seek not only medical assistance but also to turn to a priest for prayers and intercessions for their healing. Let us now consider the other matters that the father conveyed to his children."},{"author-name":"Nicephoros (Theotokis)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8958407451968d9c204fb_Nicephoros%20(Theotokis).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":18,"exegesis-text":"The apostles, in their profound reverence for God, did not provide details regarding the origin, homeland, ministry, or status of the man who approached Jesus and knelt before Him, pleading for healing for his only son, as recorded by the holy Luke (Luke 9:38). We chose to remain silent on such details, believing them to be insignificant to the magnitude of the miracle and our spiritual edification. The distressed father approached Christ, humbly beseeching Him: \\"Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is demon-possessed and suffers greatly.\\" Though the Evangelist Matthew refrains from detailing the specific afflictions linked to this lunar demon possession, the Divine Mark records it extensively, declaring that whenever afflicted, the individual experiences convulsions, foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and becomes immobile (Mark 9:18). Moreover, the enlightened Luke adds that the boy cried out, foamed, and was violently tormented, stating: \\"Behold, the spirit seizes him; he suddenly cries out; it convulses him and hardly leaves him, crushing him\\" (Luke 9:39). The people observed that these fits coincided with the full moon and mistakenly attributed the malady to lunar forces, thus labeling the afflicted as lunatics. However, as Saint Chrysostom illuminates, the moon is not responsible; rather, it is the demons that, being aware of lunar cycles, strike at these times to demonstrate that the works of God are wrongly blamed for human suffering. \\n\\nIt is essential to recognize that the lunar demon affliction bears a striking resemblance to what today’s physicians identify as inflammatory disease. The accounts from both Evangelists reflect observances akin to those seen in present-day cases of paralysis. While medical professionals insist that conditions like stupor arise from natural causes—such as fever, hysteria, and others, noting that some have even cured these ailments through medical means— scripture reveals that the demon afflicted the individual with the lunar malady. What, then, must we accept as truth? Firstly, we see that individuals experiencing such episodes are not limited to the new moon but may fall ill at any time: some infrequently, others more frequently; some may experience it monthly, weekly, daily, or even multiple times within a day. Thus, while one type might align with a new-moon illness, another may be an inflammatory condition, despite their similarities. \\n\\nSecondly, supposing lunar affliction is a natural occurrence does not negate the possibility that the adversary tormented the man depicted in the Gospel with such a condition. For the enemy, with divine permission, can inflict various natural ailments as a form of punishment. Conditions like deafness and blindness are organic, but in the case of the mute and blind man whom Jesus healed, it is evident that demonic influence was involved. The holy Gospel recounts that a man who could not speak was brought to Him, and after the demon was cast out, he spoke (Matthew 9:32, 33). On another occasion, a man who was possessed, both blind and mute, was healed as Jesus restored his ability to see and speak (Matthew 12:22). Job's affliction, though it appeared to arise naturally, was a test and trial permitted by the devil. \\n\\nCommendable are the Christians who, when faced with illness, seek not only medical assistance but also the prayers and intercessions of a priest for their healing. Let us also reflect on the other remarks made by the father concerning his son."},{"author-name":"Abbot Panteleimon about the Trinity","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"During the time when the Lord Jesus was on the Mount of Transfiguration with the three selected apostles, His adversaries, the scribes, quickly took the opportunity to ridicule the nine disciples He had left at the foot of the mountain. These disciples, who had previously cast out demons while proclaiming the Gospel in various towns and cities, found themselves unable to help a boy possessed by an evil spirit. The Lord had forewarned them of His impending suffering and death, alongside instructing them on the importance of enduring their own tribulations. This had left them in a state of fear; with neither their Master nor their more spiritually gifted leaders present, their faith faltered, rendering them powerless against the demon. A parallel can be drawn with the events at Sinai: while Moses was on the mountain receiving divine revelation, the enemy led the people into idolatry. Now, the scribes sought to mock the weakness of Christ's disciples, attempting to lessen the Lord's standing among the people. However, as He returned from the holy mountain, His face still radiating the brilliance of His transfiguration, the multitude gathered around His disciples were filled with wonder. As the holy Evangelist Mark recounts, they ran to greet Him. Moses’s face had also shone with glory after his encounter at Sinai, instilling fear in Aaron and the Israelites; yet, the countenance of Jesus Christ, illuminated with divine radiance, while evoking reverence, also drew people toward Him with its kindness and celestial allure. By merely being near His disciples, the Lord signified victory already: as He approached the crowd, He addressed the scribes with authoritative clarity, inviting them to voice any confusion, \\"What are you arguing with them about? If there is any perplexity, ask Me.\\" The scribes, who had confidently challenged the disciples, found themselves at a loss for words before the Divine Teacher. The disciples, feeling a sense of shame before their Lord, remained silent. At that moment, a man emerged from the throng and knelt before Jesus, saying, \\"Teacher, I have brought my son to You. I have brought to You my son who is possessed by a mute spirit. I beseech You, he is my only son, O Lord. Have mercy on my son, for he is tormented by a demon...\\" St. Athanasius of Alexandria noted that in the case of demoniacs during the new moon, it is not the moon itself that causes madness, but rather the wicked and deceitful devil. Unable to lead people into idolatry through other means, he exploits the new moon to incite panic, prompting the afflicted to urge their relatives to worship the moon, believing it has sent a demon. The anguished father lamented to the Lord that the evil spirit seizes his son, causing him to convulse, foam at the mouth, grind his teeth, and become rigid. These episodes of torment occur wherever he is, endangering his life as he is often thrown into fire or water, and the malevolent spirit relentlessly afflicts him."},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"When they approached the crowd, it was the day after the Lord’s transfiguration (Luke 9:37). Kneeling before Him indicated their deep respect and served to amplify their plea for His mercy."},{"author-name":"Gladkow B.I.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88bf0ceef8c96e09a6521_Gladkow%20B.I..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Jesus descended from the mountain and encountered His disciples, including the other nine apostles, who were amidst a crowd of people and scribes. A conflict had arisen between the disciples and the scribes. The coming event reveals that during Jesus' absence, a man afflicted by demons was brought to His disciples, yet they were unable to heal him. The scribes ridiculed Jesus' disciples and, consequently, also spoke disparagingly of Jesus Himself; this left the disciples feeling ashamed of their inability. At that moment, Jesus arrived, and the crowd rushed to welcome Him. The father of the demon-possessed boy initially called out to Him from a distance, pleading for Him to look upon his troubled son. He then approached Jesus, knelt down, and described in detail the suffering of his son, seeking compassion and mentioning that the disciples had been unable to heal him."},{"author-name":"Abbot Panteleimon about the Trinity","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"During the time when the Lord Jesus was present on the Mount of Transfiguration with the three chosen apostles, His adversaries, the scribes, quickly found opportunities to ridicule the nine disciples He had left at the foot of the mountain. Although the disciples of Christ had previously cast out demons while spreading the Gospel in various towns, they were unable to expel a demon from one boy. The Lord's forewarnings regarding His impending suffering and death, combined with His teachings on the necessity of bearing their own sufferings, had instilled fear in their hearts. In this troubled and confused state—compounded by the absence of both their Lord and their elders, who possessed greater spiritual strength than they— their faith faltered and was inadequate to expel the demon.\\n\\nThis situation echoed the events at Sinai: while Moses was on the mountain receiving divine revelation, the enemy led the people to succumb to idolatry. Similarly, the scribes sought eagerly to mock the ineffectiveness of Christ’s disciples, aiming to bring shame upon the Lord in the eyes of the crowd. However, the Lord Himself appeared, returning from the holy mountain, His face still radiating the glory of His Transfiguration. Upon seeing Him, the throngs gathered around His disciples were filled with wonder, as noted by the Evangelist Mark, and they rushed to greet Him. \\n\\nMoses’ face shone with formidable glory when he descended from Sinai after his encounter with God, striking fear in Aaron and all the Israelites who hesitated to approach him. In contrast, the countenance of Jesus Christ, bathed in divine radiance, while inspiring reverence, also attracted all to Him through His goodness and transcendent beauty. By His mere presence beside His disciples, the Lord signified triumph for them. As He approached the throng, He questioned the scribes—with authority—taking His disciples under His protection, saying, “What are you arguing with them about?” He offered Himself as the solution to any confusion. The scribes, who had aggressively confronted the disciples, found themselves at a loss for words before the Divine Master. The disciples felt a sense of guilt in silence before their Lord.\\n\\nThen, a father pushed through the crowd and knelt before Jesus, saying, “Teacher, I have brought my son to You. I have brought to You my son who is possessed by a mute spirit. I implore You, for he is my only son. O Lord, have mercy on my son; he suffers terribly from the demon's grip.” St. Athanasius of Alexandria remarks that the episodes involving those afflicted during the new moon are not caused by the moon itself, but rather by the wicked and deceitful devil. Unable to lead people to idolatry in other ways, the devil takes advantage of the new moon, prompting those suffering from panic to urge their loved ones to worship the moon, believing it sent the demon.\\n\\nThe distressed father lamented to the Lord that the evil spirit seizes his son, tormenting him to the point of convulsions, where he suddenly falls, foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and becomes rigid. These fits of madness occur wherever he is, constantly threatening his life; often, in this state, he is thrown into fire or water. The torment of the evil spirit leaves the boy writhing under its cruel grasp."},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"\\"He experiences torment during the new moons\\": subjected to episodes resembling sleepwalking. The affliction of the boy was a manifestation of a malevolent spirit, indicating that the sleepwalker was indeed under demonic influence. Additionally, alongside these sleepwalking episodes, the afflicted individual endured intense bouts of demonic activity. While the Lord was still on the mountain of transfiguration with three of His disciples, the father of the boy, tormented by the evil presence, approached the other disciples of Christ. However, they were unable to expel the malevolent spirit and restore the boy's health. In his frustration, the father voiced his concerns to the Lord regarding the inability of the disciples to help."},{"author-name":"Gladkow B.I.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88bf0ceef8c96e09a6521_Gladkow%20B.I..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Upon descending from the mountain, Jesus encountered His disciples, along with the other nine apostles, who were amidst a crowd that included scribes. A contention arose between the disciples and the scribes. This account reveals that during Jesus' absence, a man afflicted by a demon was brought to His disciples, but they were unable to cure him. The scribes derided the followers of Jesus and, in turn, disparaged Jesus Himself, leaving the disciples feeling ashamed of their inability. At that moment, Jesus arrived; the people rushed to welcome Him, and the father of the demon-possessed boy, initially from a distance, pleaded with Him to consider his suffering son. Approaching Jesus and kneeling, he elaborated on the agonies faced by the boy, beseeched Him for compassion, and mentioned that Jesus' disciples had been unable to help."},{"author-name":"Lopuchin A.P.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c891400ee1341634d2276d_Lopuchin%20A.P..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Upon His return to the other disciples, the Saviour discovered them engulfed in confusion and distress. A crowd had gathered around them, which included a father with his son who was possessed by an unclean spirit. The father sought their help for healing, yet they could not accommodate his plea, resulting in scorn from the ill-natured Jewish leaders and the scribes, who took pride in their knowledge. Amidst this dispute, Christ made His entrance, and the onlookers were further captivated by His demeanor, for His countenance still radiated the glory of His transfiguration. “What is this discussion you are having with them?” He inquired of the scribes in a commanding tone. However, the scribes were too taken aback by His sudden appearance to respond. At that moment, a man emerged from the throng, and kneeling before the Saviour, he cried out, revealing the desperate plight of his son, who was tormented by severe seizures due to demonic possession, completely unable to hear or speak, and afflicted with episodes of suicidal tendencies, having previously thrown himself into both fire and water."},{"author-name":"Paul Matwejewski","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8969f5be0d592d5a10576_Paul%20Matwejewski.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The day following the glorious transfiguration, Jesus Christ descended from the mountain and encountered His disciples, who were in the midst of a dispute with a gathered crowd and scribes. His unexpected arrival astonished the people, or perhaps it was \\"His very appearance, made more beautiful by the light of transfiguration\\" (Blessed Theophylact), which drew their attention; many rushed to Him and extended their greetings. As the Lord came closer, He questioned the scribes, “Why are you contending with them?” At that moment, a man stepped forward from the crowd, knelt before the Lord, and cried out, “O Master, I have brought my son to You, who is possessed by an unclean spirit. Please look upon my son, for he is my only child. O Lord, have mercy on him, for he is tormented; he convulses and suffers greatly, as the spirit seizes him and suddenly shrieks, it tears him and foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and leaves him extremely weakened. It hardly departs from him, but crushes him. I asked Your disciples to cast it out, but they were unable.” This man reproached the disciples for their inability to heal his son, yet Jesus responded in a manner that shifted the blame back to the man, saying, “The fault of their weakness is not as significant as your lack of faith; your great unbelief has overcome their limited ability, and thus, it is your own accountability that has prevented your son’s healing.”"},{"author-name":"Alexander Gorsky","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8884037c1e1c51e1332e2_Alexander%20Gorsky.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Beneath the Mount of Transfiguration, a remarkable scene awaited the disciples. They encountered a large crowd, including the other apostles they had left behind, who were engaged in a heated argument with the scribes. The contention arose because the apostles had been unable to deliver a man possessed by a demon, who had been brought to them for healing. They intended to invoke the name of Jesus, yet their lack of faith rendered their efforts ineffective. They should have approached the situation with greater preparation through fasting and prayer, allowing the full authority of Jesus’ name to be manifest through them. However, they failed to do so. Meanwhile, the scribes used this failure to ridicule the apostles and cast doubt on the power of Jesus, thereby upsetting some onlookers. This marked the situation at the foot of the mountain. When the crowd saw Jesus descending, they hurried to welcome him. The debate with the scribes continued. As the Lord approached, he addressed the scribes instead of his disciples, asking, \\"What is the dispute about?\\" Yet, they seemed caught off guard and had no ready answer. It was then that the father of the demon-possessed boy stepped forward to speak on behalf of the apostles."},{"author-name":"Lopuchin A.P.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c891400ee1341634d2276d_Lopuchin%20A.P..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Upon the Saviour’s return to His disciples, He encountered them in a state of considerable distress and disarray. A large crowd had gathered, among whom was a father with his son afflicted by demonic possession; despite the father's desperate plea for healing, the disciples were powerless to assist him. This failure led to scorn from the prideful Jewish leaders and scribes, who reveled in their own knowledge. Amidst this contention, Christ arrived, His visage radiant with the glory from His transfiguration, captivating the onlookers even further. “What is the dispute you have with them?” He inquired of the scribes with authority. However, the scribes were too taken aback by His unexpected presence to respond. At that moment, a man emerged from the throng, and kneeling before the Saviour, he fervently revealed his plight, explaining that his son was plagued by severe seizures due to demonic influence, deaf and mute, and tormented by suicidal impulses, having already cast himself into fire and water on multiple occasions."}]}
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