I spoke with a certain angel, and the subject of miracles also came up, [namely,] that they accomplish nothing whatever in disbelievers, being like a wind that touches, and is dispelled. For there is nothing within such persons to which [the miracles] relate. The descendents of Jacob were such [disbelievers] right after the exit from Egypt, near the sea of Suph;* and also later, when they had crossed over the sea. Certain spirits said that miracles were what they wanted to see so that they would believe, and they received the reply, yes, but belief is on the inside, and takes root in the inner parts of a person; it does not care for miracles, it despises them, but in those who do not have faith, miracles can never produce any root. These and similar matters are better and more fully grasped when discussed with spirits, who see the entire meaning, together with the antecedents and consequents; also, the meaning is reinforced by a kind of symbolic display and imagery, which is a form of angelic speech. 1747, the 30th day of October (old calendar). * I.e. the Red Sea.