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Explanation for:
Matthew
25
:
13
Watch ye therefore, because you know not the day nor the hour.
9
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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":"I consistently advise the discerning reader to avoid relying on superstitious interpretations and the forceful expressions born out of the desires of their creators; instead, I encourage a comprehensive understanding of the text—both what has come before, what is in the present, and what follows. Thus, when He states, \\"Watch ye, for ye know neither the day nor the hour,\\" all that He conveyed becomes clearer, including the parables of the two working in the field, the two grinding, the householder who entrusted his possessions to a servant, and the ten virgins. These parables serve as reminders that, since we are unaware of the day of judgment, we should diligently prepare ourselves through acts of righteousness, ensuring that the judge does not find us unready or indifferent when He arrives."},{"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":"\\"Be watchful, for you do not know the day or the hour\\" (Matt. 25:13). Notice how frequently Christ emphasizes this point to remind us that being unaware of the timing of our death serves our benefit. Where are those who lead a life of indifference, claiming they will bequeath their wealth to the needy upon their demise? They should heed these words and reconsider their ways. Many have been taken by sudden death and had no opportunity to express their wishes to those they loved. This parable illustrates the importance of charitable giving, while the subsequent parable addresses those who withhold assistance from others, whether in finances, encouraging words, support, or any other means. They choose to keep everything to themselves. Why is the king’s image featured in this parable while the bridegroom appears in the other? It serves to remind us of how intimately Christ relates to those who are virtuous, sharing their resources with those in need—that is the essence of true purity. Consequently, Paul describes this virtue: \\"But she who is unmarried cares for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit; but she who is married cares for the things of the world—how she may please her husband\\" (1 Cor. 7:34-35). This is the counsel he offers."},{"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":"As a result, the Lord declares to them, \\"I do not know you,\\" for in His infinite mercy and compassion, He cannot recognize the unmerciful. How could He be aware of those who are estranged from Him and dissimilar to His nature? It is important to understand that every soul has been granted a lamp and light from God, and all individuals long to encounter the Lord, yearning for unity with Him. However, while the divine light and illumination are bestowed by God, it is the wise souls who augment it with oil through their righteous deeds. In contrast, those foolish souls who neglect to replenish their lamps with oil are cast aside for lacking the good works necessary to ignite the light within them. Thus, if we fail to engage in good works, we dim the light of God that resides within us."},{"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":"It frequently emphasizes this point, indicating that due to the unpredictability of the final day and hour, it is essential to always remain aware of it."},{"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":"\\"Be vigilant therefore\\": this conveys the essence of the parable - to instruct us to remain watchful, prepared to encounter the Lord, as His return will occur unexpectedly. For those who will not witness His coming in the flesh, the moment of death is significant, (Zlat.) leading to the judgment of the soul - whether it is equipped to enter the realm of Christ. Given the unpredictability of that moment and day, Christians must exercise utmost diligence and care, ensuring that this moment does not arrive when the oil of their faith and righteous deeds is depleted, lest they face exclusion from the heavenly kingdom."},{"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":"Subsequently, the other maidens arrived, calling out through the locked doors, “LORD! LORD! OPEN TO US.” Inside the bridal chamber, they received only the verdict of their exclusion: HE RESPONDED TO THEM, \\"Truly I tell you, I do not know you; you are not recognized as part of my own, for you were not among the companions of my bride.\\" The Lord concluded this parable with a solemn warning: “Stay vigilant, for you do not know the hour or the moment of the Son of Man's return.” Always be prepared to greet Him, as He will arrive unexpectedly—with all the majesty of His Final Judgment for those who will witness His coming, and for those who do not live to see that day, He will come swiftly at the hour of death, afterward leading to the assessment of the soul.\\n\\nThis parable, like others, drew directly from the realities of life, undoubtedly leaving a profound impression on the apostles. According to Eastern tradition, the bridegroom, after the wedding ceremony, adorned in festive attire and accompanied by friends, made his way to the bride's home, where she, also elegantly dressed and surrounded by her companions, awaited his arrival. Celebrations typically occurred at night, hence the bridegroom was welcomed by shining lamps. Following this, the bride and groom, along with all the attendees, joyfully proceeded to the groom’s home, where festivities might last a week. Customs in the East have remained unchanged for millennia; travelers report that marriages there still follow the same traditions observed in the time of Christ.\\n\\nA missionary recounts attending a Hindu wedding, where the bridegroom would visit his bride at midnight. After his guests awaited his arrival for several hours, there was an announcement echoing almost like an evangelistic call: \\"Behold, the bridegroom is coming; come out to meet him!\\" Everyone rushed to light their lamps, which they held aloft, taking their place in the procession. Some, having lost their lamps, found no time to search, as the procession neared the bride's home. The entire group ascended to a beautifully decorated and illuminated porch where others awaited their arrival, dressed in festive attire. The bridegroom, carried by his friends, was seated in a place of honor among the gathering. Eventually, all entered the house, which was promptly locked and guarded. Those outside, including myself, pleaded with the guards to grant us entry. The parable of the Savior resonated deeply with me at that moment as the doors closed.\\n\\nEven prophets of the Old Testament often utilized marriage imagery to illustrate the intimate relationship between God and the people of Israel. In the New Testament, the forerunner of Christ, Christ Himself, and the holy apostles repeatedly invoked the same metaphor. In this parable, the image of marriage symbolizes His union with believers in eternal happiness. \\n\\nSt. Chrysostom raises a question regarding why the Lord chose not just any individuals but specifically virgins in this parable. He responds by affirming the honor bestowed upon virginity through the Lord’s words: “There are those who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Let anyone who can receive this, do so” (Matthew 19:12). Virginity is inherently noble; this is evident in the Old Testament, as it was not upheld even by esteemed figures, and similarly in the New Testament, it is not mandated as a requirement. Christ did not issue a command concerning it, leaving it to the discretion of His listeners. Consequently, Paul states, \\"Concerning virginity, I have no command from the Lord\\" (1 Cor. 7:25). I commend those who maintain virginity but do not impose this on those who choose otherwise, nor elevate counsel to law. Hence, as virginity is esteemed, and many hold it in high regard, the Lord presents this parable to remind those who possess virginity and other virtues but disregard acts of mercy that they face condemnation alongside adulterers; both groups are ensnared—one by carnal desire, the other by greed. However, carnal desire and greed are not equal in strength; the former is typically more intense and agonizing. \\n\\nThus, the less formidable adversary makes the failure of the virgins even less excusable. For this reason, the Lord refers to them as maidens; they accomplished a significant feat, yet because of their failure in a lesser matter, they were left with nothing. However, virginity in this parable transcends mere bodily purity; spiritually, it represents the profession of true Christian faith, whereas heresy and apostasy can be seen as violations of this virginity. In this context, the virgins symbolize all who hold to the orthodox faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead, and who eagerly await His return with the hope of eternal life. Yet, not all Orthodox believers embody the faith they profess; some live by God’s commandments and demonstrate their faith through good deeds, thus representing the wise virgins, while others maintain a Christian identity more in name than in true belief, acting without genuine intention, and these are the foolish virgins. \\n\\nOh, how many among us fit this description of half-hearted Christians! The danger lies in their misconception: \\"We are not like those who do not believe; we follow Orthodoxy and perform some good deeds—will God truly reject us? There are many who are worse than we.\\" In their complacency, they fall into spiritual lethargy, failing to recognize that what they presume to possess may be taken from them, that even the small measure of God’s gracious gifts remaining to them may eventually be lost. Their spiritual foundation is built on sand; the seed of grace falls on rocky soil, and they conclude their lives in this state of spiritual unawareness.\\n\\nWhat do the lamps and the oil in the vessels signify? St. John Chrysostom explains: \\"By the lamps, He refers to the very gift of virginity and the purity of holiness, while the oil represents humanity, charity, and assistance to the needy.\\" As long as we inhabit this world, before death claims us, let us hold tightly to the lamps of good works, ensuring that the words of Christ are fulfilled in us: \\"Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven\\" (Matthew 5:16). According to the Apostle James, if faith is the body then works are the soul; in this parable, faith represents the lamp, and good deeds symbolize the oil in the vessels. Likewise, as the Apostle Paul indicates, good works please God only when infused with faith and love; thus, actions serve as the lamp while love and faith fuel it.\\n\\nBlessed Augustine wisely states: \\"For the wise virgins, the oil symbolizes true humble love for God; for the foolish, it signifies false admiration—human praise that ceases at the end of earthly life.\\" The delay of the Bridegroom suggests that His return will not happen swiftly. The expression \\"…they all became drowsy and fell asleep\\" conveys, as Bishop Michael clarifies, not that all Christians will be unawakened at Christ’s Second Coming, but it underscores the continuous readiness required of Christians to encounter the Lord or that sleep may signify death.\\n\\nYet at midnight, a cry arises. This is the cry referenced by Paul: “at the proclamation, at the sound of the Archangel and the trumpet of God” (1 Thess. 4:16), when the Lord will \\"descend from heaven,\\" accompanied by angels, the heavenly Bridegroom’s friends, bringing with Him the Church, the triumphant assembly of God’s saints, who await acknowledgement from the Church still engaged in earthly struggle. The cry resounds at midnight: Jews believed the Messiah would come suddenly at midnight, just as their ancestors had departed Egypt at that hour. This midnight hour powerfully illustrates the unexpectedness of the Day of the Lord, which will arrive \\"as a thief in the night.\\"\\n\\nIf our actions transform us, no additional assistance will avail us, no matter how much we desire it. Thus, the maidens plead an impossibility. This reality aligns with Abraham’s declaration: \\"A great chasm has been fixed between us and you, so that those who want to cross over from here to you cannot” (Lk. 16:26). \\"Rather, go to those who sell and buy for yourselves.” Who are these sellers? The needy. Where can they be found? Right here, and only now can you find them—not afterward. Therefore, do not squander your resources on luxury and passing glory; much oil will be necessary for you. He who lights a candle for another does not diminish his own light; yet, nothing can be shared that is the exclusive possession of one's own soul; neither the goodness of one’s heart, nor the purity of conscience, nor holiness can be imparted.\\n\\nThe wise virgins do not presume they have any excess to share which might not be needed by themselves; they are fortunate if their own lamps burn brightly enough to gain entry into the joy of the wedding feast. The cautionary words, \\"lest there be insufficiency for both you and us,\\" emphasize that our efforts here pale in comparison to the rewards awaiting us there, as articulated by St. Ephrem the Syrian. Thus, the teachings of Catholics regarding the extraordinary merits of the saints of God are misguided. In the judgment of God, “the righteous is scarcely saved” (1 Pet. 4:18). \\n\\nThe virgins who ventured out to procure oil found themselves at a loss, demonstrating that while death may evoke compassion, it brings no relief from torment. Their efforts proved futile, for they sought their supply elsewhere while already facing judgment. The fate of the rich man illustrates this: he became so preoccupied with his human concerns that he neglected to attend to the needs of those around him. Now, he hurriedly seeks to rescue those he can no longer see from the depths of despair. Yet all efforts are ultimately in vain (St. Chrysostom's words).\\n\\n“And the doors were shut.” Which doors? These are the doors that welcome the faithful from all directions to sit with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the Kingdom of Heaven; this is the Door that proclaims: “He who comes to Me will not be cast out.” It is open now, but shall one day be closed forever. Even those who have committed grievous sins—murderers, tax collectors, and harlots—may enter, for Christ forgives all who genuinely repent. However, what does He then declare? “And the doors were closed.” No prayer, no plea, no sigh will reach Him. The door that accepted David after his sin and did not reject Peter post-denial will be shut. The door is locked, while the ominous phrase “I do not know you” resonates. I cast you away because you chose not to know Me; I reject a love that lacks compassion for My beloved: “Depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness” (Matthew 7:23).\\n\\nThe outcome for the foolish virgins is irrevocably determined, and the doors shall remain shut for them. “The Kingdom of Heaven,” as Blessed Augustine says, “is a realm from which the enemy cannot enter and from which friends do not depart.” After striving, laboring, and overcoming the fierce tendencies of nature, the maidens, in shame, extinguished their lamps and departed with their lights extinguished. Nothing darkens virginity more than a deficit in charity. \\n\\nIn warning us against this fate, the Lord emphasizes: \\"… be vigilant, for you know neither the day nor the hour.” St. Chrysostom observes how frequently Jesus repeats this counsel, indicating that our ignorance regarding the hour of death serves our own benefit. Where are those who lead lives of apathy, claiming, “We will leave all to the poor upon our death”? Let them heed these words and amend their ways. Many, taken by sudden death, had no opportunity to inform their families of their wishes. The timing of death remains a mystery for all, for “He who promises pardon to the penitent has not promised tomorrow to the sinner.\\" Therefore, let us often invoke the hopeful refrain of the Church: “Behold, the Bridegroom comes at midnight, and blessed is the servant who finds him vigilant; but woeful is the one who is found in despair: Take heed, O my soul, that you do not succumb to sleep, that you do not face death, and that you are not excluded from the Kingdom; but rise, calling, ‘Holy, Holy, Holy, is He, O God, through the Virgin Mary, have mercy on us.’”"},{"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":"At the conclusion of this parable, Jesus reiterated to His disciples, \\"Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man will come.\\" Thus, it is essential to remain vigilant, continuously attentive to the fulfillment of God's purposes, and to gather an abundance of good works that enable one to depart in peace. When the Lord Jesus Christ returns, we should be ready to encounter Him without fear. One must seize every opportunity, no matter how small, to build up this reserve, to the fullest extent of one’s strength and capability."},{"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":"Then they all got up, adjusting their lamps to ensure they were prepared. However, the foolish virgins realized for the first time that their lamps were dimming because their oil had completely burned away, prompting them to request some from the wise ones. The wise replied, “If we give you our oil, there may not be enough for either of us. It would be best for you to go to those who sell oil and acquire some for yourselves.” While they were away purchasing oil, the bridegroom arrived, and the five who were ready went in with him to the bridal chamber, and the door was shut. Soon afterward, the other five returned, persistently knocking on the door and pleading, “Lord! Lord, open to us.” But he responded, “Truly, I say to you, I do not know you. You do not belong to those who are part of the wedding procession, and thus you are strangers to Me, having no entitlement to participate in My marriage feast.” The disciples should have understood from this parable the essential nature of vigilance for believers, and Christ, concluding the lesson, admonished them, “Therefore, stay alert, for you do not know the day or the hour when the Son of Man will arrive.”"},{"author-name":"Alexander Gorsky","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8884037c1e1c51e1332e2_Alexander%20Gorsky.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Even a modest offering should not be overlooked. There will be accountability not only for what was lost but also for failing to put it to good use, for not multiplying even a single talent. A more in-depth understanding can be found in the parable of the minas (See Lk. 19)."}]}
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