Spiritual Experiences (Odhner) n. 943

Previous Number Next Number Next Translation See Latin 

943. Those, however, who [had harbored hatred] for some better, and what seemed to them good reason, do not dwell so far distant, but near the face, in a similar [tub-like place]. But they are within a wall that is curved at the front and, in fact, is white, as if coated with plaster, and has beautiful carvings in plaster - because their reason for contracting hatred and vengefulness had appeared beautiful to them. A wall like this appeared to me, near my face. It was snowy white, with beautiful carvings, and it grew wider, the carvings being erased, and at the same time higher, so that eventually I could not see the top. It became less white in color, but on the inside verging toward a kind of sky blue. So it is for those who cling to such a feeling, not for an evil reason, but for some other, looking to the common good, and finally to heavenly good. This flat wall went up and raised itself upwards, offering me the opportunity to look at it on the inside also, and I was told that in it, at the bottom, are snakes and dragons - which, however, I did not see - symbolizing hatred and revenge, which are then dispelled.


This page is part of the Writings of Emanuel Swedenborg

© 2000-2001 The Academy of the New Church