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Translation
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What the Fathers say
Eastern Fathers
John Chrysostom
And in truth, if He wished them to use human aid, not a hundred swords would have sufficed; but if He willed not the assistance of man, even two are superfluous.
Cyril of Alexandria
And in foretelling these things, the Lord was speaking of what was about to happen to the country of the Jews. But the divine disciples did not understand the deep meaning of what was said, but supposed rather that He meant that swords were necessary, because of the attack about to be made upon Him by the disciple who betrayed Him, and by those who were assembled to seize Him. For this reason they say, "Lord, behold, here are two swords." And what is the Saviour's reply? …
Theophylact of Ohrid
I think that the Lord speaks thus in parables so that they might receive benefit later, when they remember and understand. Since at that time they were in such misunderstanding that they said, "Lord, behold, here are two swords," and He, seeing that they did not understand, says, "It is enough," although it was not enough. For if against those who came in a robber-like manner it were necessary to employ human help, then not even a hundred swords would have been enough. …
Western Saints
Bede
But they said: Lord, behold, here are two swords. And he said to them: It is enough. Two swords are enough to bear witness to the voluntary suffering of the Savior. One which would show the apostles' courage in striving for the Lord, and, when struck, the ear cut off would demonstrate the Lord's mercy and healing power even unto death. Otherwise, the other sword, not being drawn from its sheath, would show that they were not allowed to do all they could for his defense.
Bonaventure
In designation of which he adds: But they said: Lord, behold, here are two swords. And he said to them: It is enough. From which it appears that the word of Christ refers more to the spiritual sense than to the carnal. For two swords would never be sufficient for defense against that innumerable multitude who came with swords and clubs. What he therefore says: It is enough, is understood of the thing signified. …
Translation