Secondly, that our souls be thereby taught to turn themselves to the things that are more desirable.
Thirdly, because they who praise God ought not to turn their backs on Him.
Fourthly, according to Joannes Damascenus (who giveth also the three following reasons), [Footnote 613] to show that we seek our country.
[Footnote 613: Quatuor orationes. We should probably read, rationes.]
Fifthly, that we may look upon Christ crucified, who is the True East.
Sixthly, that we may prove that we expect Him to come to be our Judge. For Damascenus saith in that place, 'God planted a garden eastward'; [Footnote 614] whence man's sin made him an exile, and instead of Paradise made him to dwell in the west: therefore, looking to our ancient home, we pray towards the east.
[Footnote 614: Genesis ii, 8.]
Seventhly, because our Lord, at His Crucifixion, looked towards the east: and also when he ascended into heaven. He ascended towards the east: and thus the apostles adored Him: and thus 'He shall come again in like manner as they saw Him go into heaven.' [Footnote 615]
[Footnote 615: Acts i, 11.]
Eighthly, Daniel likewise in the Jewish captivity prayed towards the temple.