216. As the Word in its inmost depths, because of its celestial sense, is like a gentle flame that enkindles, and in its intermediate depths, because of its spiritual sense, is like a light that enlightens, so in its outmost because of its natural sense it is like a transparent object receiving both the flame and the light; and from the flame it is ruddy like purple, and from the light is white like snow. Thus it is comparatively like a ruby and a diamond, like a ruby from celestial flame, and like a diamond from spiritual light. The Word in the sense of the letter being such, in this sense it is meant:
(1) By the precious stones of which the foundations of the New Jerusalem consisted. (2) By the Urim and Thummim on Aaron's ephod. (3) And by the precious stones in the garden of Eden, where the King of Tyre is said to have been. (4) Also by the curtains, veils, and pillars of the tabernacle. (5) Likewise by the externals of the temple at Jerusalem. (6) The Word in its glory was represented in the Lord when He was transfigured. (7) The power of the Word in its outmosts was represented by the Nazarites. (8) The inexpressible power of the Word. These statements shall be illustrated one by one.
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