20. Козлища

Evil people are likened to goats, since there is a considerable similarity between goats and evil people. Goats gore and offend almost any livestock with their horns. Likewise, evil people offend every person, good and evil, either in deed or in word. Pride is noticeable in the goats, as they increasingly walk in high and steep places, and often climb buildings. Likewise, evil people are proud and exalt themselves high. Goats always try to be ahead in the herd. Likewise, evil people always want to rule over others or be in first place. Goats, when they are dragged somewhere or beaten, do not remain silent, but scream. Likewise, evil people, when they are punished, do not tolerate it, but grumble, and often blaspheme: what is my fault? what I sinned, and so on. Goats emit a special stench. Likewise, evil people reek of evil and lawless life. Note, Christian, the similarities between goats and evil people, and remember what is written about sheep and goats: “And all nations will be gathered before Him (Christ the King); and will separate one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats; and He will put the sheep on His right hand, and the goats on His left” (Matthew 25:32–33). Correct yourself with repentance and prayer. May you be a sheep of Christ. May you not appear as a goat when the good are separated from the evil, like sheep from goats. You might be interested in: