Spiritual Experiences (Buss) n. 5148

Previous Number Next Number Next Translation See Latin 

5148. CONTINUATION CONCERNING VASTATIONS, AND CONCERNING HYPOCRITES. CONCERNING HELL AND HEAVEN. I also saw two who were vastated by being led about. One of them has learned, by art [acquired] in the world, to speak from the affection of love from sincerity, from charity, and even from innocence; when, nevertheless, inwardly, he was among the worst of devils (Ericus Benzelius). He was led about, and then detained in like affections, and exhibited to all those with whom he held communication; and it was also seen what sort of devil he was. He was a hypocrite of the worst sort, because he could counterfeit innocence. And then they all were turned away [from him]. Consequently, all those interiors which had communication with them, were closed. This lasted an hour's time; and, then, he was again led about, twice. At length, there appeared nothing else than a bundle of teeth; for hypocrites appear thus. This one was worse [than most]; for he pressed upon the front teeth, on both sides, and induced a heavy pain.


This page is part of the Writings of Emanuel Swedenborg

© 2000-2001 The Academy of the New Church