An Exposition of the Orthodox Faith 22

1 BOOK II — CHAPTER 8: Concerning air and winds.

2 Air is the most subtle element, and is moist and warm: heavier, indeed, than fire: but lighter than earth and water: it is the cause of respiration and voice: it is colorless, that is, it has no color by nature: it is clear and transparent, for it is capable of receiving light: it ministers to three of our senses, for it is by its aid that we see, hear and smell: it has the power likewise of receiving heat and cold, dryness and moisture.

3 It does not derive its light from itself, but is illuminated by sun, and moon, and stars, and fire. And this is just what the Scripture means when it says, And darkness was upon the deep; for its object is to show that the air has not derived its light from itself, but that it is quite a different essence from light. And wind is a movement of air: or wind is a rush of air which changes its name as it changes the place whence it rushes.