9511. At the two ends of the propitiatory [mercy seat]. That this signifies celestial good and spiritual good, is evident from the signification of the "cherub" at one end, as being the approach through celestial good; and from the signification of the "cherub" at the other end, as being the approach through spiritual good. The same is here signified by "the two ends" as by the Lord's right and left hands; by His "right hand" is signified the good of celestial love, which is the good of love to the Lord; and by His "left hand" the good of spiritual love, which is the good of love toward the neighbor. From this also all things on man's right side correspond to celestial good; and those on his left side to spiritual good; for all things with man correspond to heaven. Those who are in these goods are meant by "sitting on the Lord's right and left hands" in Mark:
To sit on My right hand, and on My left hand, is not Mine to give; except to those for whom it hath been prepared (Mark 10:40);
"to give to those for whom it hath been prepared" signifies to bestow from mercy upon those who are in the good of life and of faith (see n. 9305), thus on those who are in celestial good and in spiritual good.
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