4933. That in the Grand Man the hands, arms, and shoulders correspond to power, is because the forces and powers of the whole body and of all its viscera have reference to them; for the body exerts its forces and powers by the arms and hands. It is for this reason also that power is signified in the Word by the "hands," "arms," and "shoulders." That this is signified by the "hands," may be seen above (n. 878, 3387); and that it is signified by the "arms" also, is plain from many passages, as from the following:
Be Thou their arm every morning (Isa. 33:2). The Lord Jehovih cometh in strength, and His arm shall rule for Him (Isa. 40:10). He worketh it with the arm of His strength (Isa. 44:12). Mine arms shall judge the peoples (Isa. 51:5). Put on strength, O arm of Jehovah (Isa. 51:9). I looked, and there was no one helping, therefore Mine arm brought salvation unto Me (Isa. 63:5). Cursed is he that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm (Jer. 17:5). I have made the earth, the man, and the beast, by My great power and by My outstretched arm (Isa. 27:5; 32:17). The horn of Moab is cut off, and His arm is broken (Isa. 48:25). I break the arms of the king of Egypt, but I will strengthen the arms of the king of Babylon (Ezek. 30:22, 24-25). O Jehovah, break Thou the arm of the wicked (Ps. 10:15). According to the greatness of Thine arm reserve the sons of death (Ps. 79:11). Brought out of Egypt with a mighty hand and with an outstretched arm (Deut. 7:19; 11:2-3; 26:8; Jer. 32:21; Ps. 136:12). From these passages it is also evident that by "right hand" in the Word is signified superior power, and by "sitting at the right hand of Jehovah," omnipotence (Matt. 26:63, 64; Luke 22:69; Mark 14:61, 62; 16:19).
This page is part of 
© 2000-2001 The Academy of the New Church