Meaning: The quote "Then Christ shall be clothed with all the beauty of the elect as if with a long tunic variously adorned, in which He shall shine as if covered with all manner of precious stones" by Saint Symeon the New Theologian, a 10th-century Byzantine Christian monk and poet, reflects his vision of the eschatological union between Christ and the elect, the chosen or the faithful.

In this quote, Saint Symeon uses rich imagery to convey the profound spiritual reality of the union between Christ and the elect. The "long tunic variously adorned" symbolizes the beauty and glory of the redeemed, which becomes Christ's own adornment. The imagery of being "covered with all manner of precious stones" suggests the radiant and resplendent nature of this union, depicting Christ as adorned with the virtues and purity of the elect.

Saint Symeon's vision is deeply rooted in the Christian understanding of salvation and the union of believers with Christ. The concept of the elect is central to Christian theology and refers to those chosen by God for salvation. According to Christian belief, through faith in Christ, believers become part of the elect and are united with Christ in a mystical and profound way. This union is often described in terms of spiritual marriage, with Christ as the bridegroom and the Church (the community of believers) as the bride.

The quote also alludes to the biblical imagery of precious stones, which is a recurring motif in Christian eschatology. In the Book of Revelation, for example, the heavenly Jerusalem is described as adorned with precious stones, symbolizing the beauty and glory of the redeemed community. By using this imagery, Saint Symeon emphasizes the splendor and magnificence of the union between Christ and the elect in the eschatological consummation of all things.

Furthermore, the quote reflects Saint Symeon's mystical and experiential approach to theology. He was known for his intense personal experiences of God's presence and his emphasis on the transformative power of divine grace. In his writings, he often described the intimate union with God in terms of spiritual vision and mystical union, seeking to convey the ineffable realities of the divine encounter.

In conclusion, Saint Symeon the New Theologian's quote captures the profound and mystical vision of the eschatological union between Christ and the elect. Through rich and vivid imagery, he conveys the beauty, glory, and splendor of this union, rooted in the Christian understanding of salvation and the transformative power of divine grace. His words continue to inspire and challenge readers to contemplate the profound mystery of the union between Christ and the redeemed, inviting them to seek a deeper understanding of the spiritual realities at the heart of Christian faith.