Gregory of Nazianzus, Basil of Caesarea and John Chrysostom (Cambridge, University Library, MS Nn.1.23)

...the misfortune from above. Those who are beastly in their conduct are conceded original: "συγχωρούμενοι." Gregory is discussing who is allowed to approach the divine mysteries; those who remain at a "beastly" or purely physical level of understanding are often excluded or kept at a distance., being unworthy of even the snorting of beasts. May the reward remain that we are conceded [this grace]; and of the thickness original: "παχυτήτων." A technical term in Greek patristics referring to the material, literal, or "heavy" nature of the Old Testament Law compared to the "thin" or "airy" spiritual reality of the Gospel. of those who have a [duller] intellect. And on one hand, that which is beyond contemplation and untouchable; so that we do not remain completely idle and motionless. Nor should we merely circumscribe the body of the Law The "body" of the Law refers to its literal, physical requirements, while the "soul" would be its spiritual meaning.; and thus fall away from and become alien to the things set before us. For one path is Jewish and lowly; the other is like the interpreting of dreams; and both are equally condemned. Thus we converse regarding these things and what is attainable for us; and it is not altogether out of place,

nor is it laughable to the many. For we consider that since we fell from the beginning because of sin, and were stolen away through pleasure, we came even unto idolatry. And while one part was godless and involving blood original: "αἱμάτων." This refers to the bloody sacrifices of paganism which the Law sought to redirect toward God., we were able to be made true and to be led back to our ancient state original: "ἀρχαῖον ἐπαναχθῆναι." This refers to the Restoration or 'Apokatastasis' to the state of Paradise before the Fall. through the bowels of mercy splanchana eleous of God toward us. He could not endure that such a work, the creation of His own hand plasma original: "πλάσμα." Literally "the thing molded," referring to Adam being formed from the dust., should be lost. How then was it necessary for us to be remolded, and what was to happen? The severity of the treatment iatreias original: "ἰατρείας." Gregory uses the metaphor of a physician; the "treatment" is the Law, which had to be applied gently so as not to shock the patient. was rejected, as it was not something we would obey, and it was capable of striking [too hard] because of the nature of the time...

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