Philo, in his unique way, dives into this very question, and his insights, drawn from his interpretation of scripture, are surprisingly relevant even today. He speaks of two kinds of creatures that inflict injury: beasts and men. Now, you might think the wild animals are the bigger threat. Philo actually suggests the opposite. He argues that beasts, in a way, are less culpable because they lack the intimate knowledge to truly wound us. They operate from a distance, often driven by instinct.
But then there are men. And specifically, he calls them "brothers."
Why this emphasis on brotherhood? Philo uses this term to highlight a few crucial points. First, that we are all interconnected. We are, in essence, family, sharing a common origin – what he calls "rational nature." This echoes the creation story, where we all descend from the same source.
But here’s where it gets painful. Philo points out that the most bitter and devastating conflicts often erupt between those closest to us – between siblings. Think about it: disputes over inheritance, power struggles within families... these are age-old stories, aren't they? And the tragedy, as Philo sees it, is that these conflicts are so much more devastating because brothers know each other's vulnerabilities. They know exactly where to strike to inflict the deepest pain. They know "what kind of attack they must employ in their present warfare."
And that’s why Philo uses the term "brothers" to warn us about the severe consequences awaiting those who commit such acts. He suggests that murderers, especially those who betray familial bonds, will face a particularly harsh judgment. They haven't harmed strangers; they've harmed their own flesh and blood.
Philo beautifully describes God as the "protector and overseer" of those slain by man. Even if earthly justice seems to fail, even if the wicked escape immediate punishment, Philo assures us that they are already held accountable before a higher power – the divine judgment-seat. This is a powerful image of ultimate justice, a comforting thought for those who have suffered injustice.
But Philo doesn't stop at the literal interpretation. He also delves into the allegorical, the "inward sense" of these words. He sees the soul as a precious entity that must be guarded against destructive influences. In this context, the "beasts" represent those external forces that threaten to corrupt us, the "furious men threatening calamitous death". And the "men brothers?" Those are our own destructive thoughts and words – the internal voices that can do the most damage, those "thoughts and words uttered by mouth and tongue" that, because they arise from within, can cause immense harm.
So, what does this all mean for us today? Perhaps it's a call to be mindful of our relationships, especially with those closest to us. To recognize the power of our words and actions, and to strive for understanding and compassion, even in the face of conflict. And maybe, just maybe, to find solace in the idea that even when earthly justice fails, there is a higher power watching over us, offering protection and ultimately, holding everyone accountable.