Glossa Ordinaria

In the sight. Because they understand the sacrament and the reality of the sacrament, and receive none but those whom they have seen and known to be fit. A sea of glass. Baptism, bright with the sincerity of faith, after which the elect are led by the fire of tribulation to the firmness of good works, as crystal hardens out of water. In the midst. He describes that a certain level space appeared, after the likeness of a great judge, who has a broad and spacious open place, where he sits and judges judgments. Of the seat. By the name of the seat is understood Jerusalem, or the supporters, as a man, as a calf, as a lion, as an eagle. Four. Because of the office of the fourfold preaching. Living creatures. These well represent Christ, who was born, suffered, rose again, ascended. The faithful also are rational and gentle, as a man; treading down adversities without terror, as a lion; mortifying themselves, as a calf; seeking heavenly things, as an eagle. Full of eyes. Mindful of past sins, and guarding themselves for the time to come; or having knowledge of those things which God has done or will do at the end of the world; or they please God and men.