But the wise ones answered and said, “No, lest it not be enough for both us and you. rather, go to the sellers and buy for yourselves.”
The wise virgins’ answer shows not stinginess or cruelty, but a spiritual reality: the light of faith and the grace of the Holy Spirit cannot be borrowed. The oil is not shared, because it is not sold, but is given by God through each person’s personal spiritual effort. The words “Go and buy for yourselves” are a symbolic call to seek grace, but at that time it is already too late. This reminds us that salvation is not given on a collective basis; it is a personal responsibility. Even the most loving person cannot keep the light of faith in another’s place, if that person has not himself striven to fill his heart with grace.