And I will give peace in the land, and you shall lie down, and none shall make you afraid: and I will rid evil animals out of the land, neither shall the sword go through your land.
All Commentaries on Leviticus 26:6 Go To Leviticus 26
Caesarius of Arles
AD 542
After this we read, “I will rid your country of ravenous beasts.” These material beasts are not entirely evil or wholly good but rather in between, for they are mute animals. However, those other beasts are spiritual evils, and the apostle calls them “spiritual forces of wickedness on high.” That is the evil beast of which Scripture says, “The serpent was more cunning than all the beasts on earth.” This is the evil beast which God promises to drive out of our land if we keep his commandments. Do you also wish to see another evil beast? Listen to the apostle Peter: “Your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, goes about seeking someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith.” Under a vision in the desert which he entitled that of the quadrupeds, the prophet Isaiah spoke in a prophetic spirit concerning beasts: “The lion and the young of the lion are in tribulation. Here spring up the flying basilisks which carry their riches upon asses and camels to a people whose help is futile and vain.” Can these words in any way seem to have been said with regard to corporeal beasts, in the minds of those who are very fond of the letter? How can the lion, the young of the lion or the flying basilisk carry the riches upon asses and camels? However, the prophet enumerates the opposing powers of the most wicked demons, by the Holy Ghost seeing them put the riches of their deceits upon asses and camels, that is, upon souls that are stupid and mindful of nothing else except bodily pleasure. Thus he designates them figuratively, comparing them with camels and asses. Lest he be delivered to these beasts, the Godfearing soul prays to the Lord: “Give not to the vulture the life of your dove.”
