Emanuel Swedenborg

"I am aware that many who read the following pages and the Memorable Relations annexed to the chapters, will believe that they are fictions of the imagination; but I solemnly declare they are not fictions, but were truly done and seen; and that I saw them, not in any state of the mind asleep, but in a state of perfect wakefulness: for it has pleased the Lord to manifest himself to me, and to send me to teach the things relating to the New Church, which is meant by the New Jerusalem in the Revelation: for which purpose he has opened the interiors of my mind and spirit; by virtue of which privilege it has been granted me to be in the spiritual world with angels, and at the same time in the natural world with men, and this now for twenty-five years."

The Lord, speaking in the presence of His disciples of the consummation of the age, which is the final period of the church, says, near the end of what He foretells about its successive states in respect to love and faith:Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken. And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven; and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn; and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And He shall send forth His angels with a trumpet and a great sound; and they shall gather together His elect from the four winds, from the end to end of the heavens (Matt. 24:29-31).

Inasmuch as, by the Divine mercy of the Lord, the interiors which are of my spirit have been opened in me, and it has thereby been given me to speak with spirits and angels, not only with those who are near our Earth, but also with those who are near other earths; and since I had an ardent desire to know whether there were other earths, and to know their character and the character of their inhabitants; it has been granted me by the Lord to speak and have intercourse with spirits and angels who are from other earths, with some for a day, with some for a week, with some for months; and to be instructed by them respecting the earths from and near which they were, and concerning the life, customs, and worship of their inhabitants, besides various other things there that are worthy of note. And since it has been given me to become acquainted with these matters in this way, it is permitted me to describe them from the things which I have heard and seen.

Spiritual life is acquired solely by a life according to the commandments in the Word. These commandments are given in summary in the Decalogue, namely, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet the goods of others. These commandments are the commandments that are to be done, for when a man does these his works are good and his life is spiritual, and for the reason that so far as a man shuns evils and hates them so far he wills and loves goods.For there are two opposite spheres that surround man, one from hell, the other from heaven; from hell a sphere of evil and falsity therefrom, from heaven a sphere of good and of truth therefrom; and these spheres do not immediately affect the body, but they affect the minds of men, for they are spiritual spheres, and thus are affections that belong to the love. In the midst of these man is set; therefore so far as he approaches the one, so far he withdraws from the other. This is why so far as a man shuns evils and hates them, so far he wills and loves goods and the truths therefrom; for no one can at the same time serve two masters, for he will hate the one and will love the other. (Matt. vi. 24).

This nice little book offers one of Swedenborgs most important theological phrases for every day of the day. Neatly arranged by date and easily accessable via an interactive TOC you can read the best sentences from works like Arcana Coelestia, True Christian Religion, Divine Love and Wisdom, Conjugial Love, Divine Providence or Heaven and Hell.

This work, originally published in 1766, unfolds the spiritual meaning of the Book of Revelation. It shows that by the "Seven Churches in Asia," to whom this prophecy is addressed, are meant the different classes of Christians of the present day; that the Last Judgment is not an event that is to occur at some future time in the natural world, but one that has already taken place in the world of spirits, and that " the New Jerusalem coming down like a bride out of heaven," symbolizes a new dispensation of truth now descending into the minds of men. Incidentally it explains numerous passages from other parts of the Word. Instructive narratives of things seen in the spiritual world are also interspersed between the chapters.

This is an exposition of the internal or spiritual sense of the books of Genesis and Exodus, according to the law of correspondences. It unfolds the spiritual significance of the creation; of the stories of Adam and Eve, and of the deluge; of the lives of the patriarchs; of the captivity of the chosen people in Egypt and of their deliverance therefrom, and of their subsequent history; of the ritual of the Jewish religion, its sacrifices and observances:and in general, traces the foreshadowing through both books of the incarnation and glorification of the Lord Jesus Christ. Many passages from other parts of the Word are also fully explained.Relations of things heard and seen in the spiritual world are interspersed, explaining the process of dying, and of mans resuscitation and conscious entrance into the interior life; the nature of the soul; of heaven and heavenly joy;and of hell, its nature and its miseries. It also treats of the Grand Man, or the whole angelic heaven, and the correspondence of the societies therein with the different organs and senses of the body; the origin and correspondence of diseases; the spirits and inhabitants of the various planets, and of other earths in the starry heavens. All of which are related to a true understanding of the Divine Word.This is book #6 out of 12 and covers Genesis 32 - 38.

Emanuel Swedenborgs "Heaven and its Wonders and Hell" offers a profound exploration of the afterlife, intricately detailing the nature of heaven and hell through a unique blend of mysticism and rational inquiry. Written in the 18th century, this work exemplifies Swedenborgs distinctive literary style, which bridges the realms of theology and science. Utilizing vivid imagery and allegorical narrative, he invites readers to engage with complex metaphysical concepts, fostering a deeper understanding of spiritual realities and the moral implications of human actions. Swedenborgs meticulous observations of spiritual experiences are presented with both lucidity and authority, making his insights accessible to a wide audience while challenging prevailing religious doctrines of his time. Emanuel Swedenborg (1688-1772) was a Swedish scientist, philosopher, and theologian whose extensive background in natural sciences and engineering profoundly influenced his spiritual writings. Following a series of mystical experiences, Swedenborg devoted his later life to exploring and documenting the details of the spiritual world, believing that his revelations were intended to transform the understanding of faith. His unique position as a scientific mind turned spiritual seeker led to an innovative synthesis of intellect and spirituality, setting the stage for a deeper inquiry into the human souls journey. This book is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the intersections of spirituality, morality, and human existence. Swedenborgs meticulous insights into the nature of the afterlife challenge readers to reflect upon their own beliefs and the implications of their actions. Whether one approaches it as a scholarly text or a spiritual guide, "Heaven and its Wonders and Hell" remains a significant contribution to the discourse on life beyond death.

Editor: Julian K. Smyth and William F. Wunsch

Heaven and Its Wonders and Hell is a profound exploration of the spiritual realms as envisioned by Emanuel Swedenborg, a Swedish philosopher and mystic. Written in an accessible yet rich literary style, this work articulates Swedenborgs visionary experiences of both heaven and hell, drawing on a unique blend of theology and metaphysics. The text delves into the nature of the afterlife, illuminating the moral and ethical dimensions of human actions that determine ones eternal fate. Swedenborgs illustrative descriptions bring to life the spiritual landscapes of the afterworld, making it not just a theological treatise but also a literary reflection on the human condition, heavily influenced by Enlightenment thought and Christian mysticism. Emanuel Swedenborg (1688-1772) was a visionary scientist and theologian whose rigorous studies in various fields, including anatomy and geology, significantly shaped his spiritual insights. His religious experiences began in the late 1740s, prompting him to write extensively about the divine and the interplay between the material and the spiritual. Swedenborgs unique perspective stems from his deep engagement with both the natural sciences and the theological principles of Christianity, leading to a fresh interpretation of spiritual truths. This book is highly recommended for anyone intrigued by the intersections of faith, spirituality, and ethics. Swedenborgs insights provide a transformative lens through which readers can examine their own beliefs about life after death while offering profound wisdom relevant to contemporary existential questions. Heaven and Its Wonders and Hell invites readers to embark on an intellectual and spiritual journey that resonates across centuries.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A succinct Introduction situates the works timeless appeal and themes.- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the eras events and influences that shaped the writing.- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the works messages, connecting them to modern life.- Handpicked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

Translator: William Wunsch

From Things Heard and Seen / Trans.: John Ager

This is the annotated edition including a very detailed biography about Swedenborg, his life and his writings.The grand and distinctive principle of Swedenborgian theology, next to the doctrine of the divine humanity, is the doctrine of life. God alone lives. Creation is deadman is dead; and their apparent life is the divine presence. God is everywhere the same. It fallaciously appears as if He were different in one man and in another. The difference is in the recipients; by one He is not received in the same degree as another.This edition contains the following writings:On The White HorseOn The Earths In The UniverseThe Last JudgmentLast Judgment ContinuedThe Doctrine Of FaithThe Doctrine Of LifeDoctrine Of Sacred ScripturesThe Doctrine Of CharityThe Doctrine Of The Lord

This is an exposition of the internal or spiritual sense of the books of Genesis and Exodus, according to the law of correspondences. It unfolds the spiritual significance of the creation; of the stories of Adam and Eve, and of the deluge; of the lives of the patriarchs; of the captivity of the chosen people in Egypt and of their deliverance therefrom, and of their subsequent history; of the ritual of the Jewish religion, its sacrifices and observances:and in general, traces the foreshadowing through both books of the incarnation and glorification of the Lord Jesus Christ. Many passages from other parts of the Word are also fully explained.Relations of things heard and seen in the spiritual world are interspersed, explaining the process of dying, and of mans resuscitation and conscious entrance into the interior life; the nature of the soul; of heaven and heavenly joy;and of hell, its nature and its miseries. It also treats of the Grand Man, or the whole angelic heaven, and the correspondence of the societies therein with the different organs and senses of the body; the origin and correspondence of diseases; the spirits and inhabitants of the various planets, and of other earths in the starry heavens. All of which are related to a true understanding of the Divine Word.This is book #8 out of 12 and covers Genesis 43 - 50.

This is an exposition of the internal or spiritual sense of the books of Genesis and Exodus, according to the law of correspondences. It unfolds the spiritual significance of the creation; of the stories of Adam and Eve, and of the deluge; of the lives of the patriarchs; of the captivity of the chosen people in Egypt and of their deliverance therefrom, and of their subsequent history; of the ritual of the Jewish religion, its sacrifices and observances:and in general, traces the foreshadowing through both books of the incarnation and glorification of the Lord Jesus Christ. Many passages from other parts of the Word are also fully explained.Relations of things heard and seen in the spiritual world are interspersed, explaining the process of dying, and of mans resuscitation and conscious entrance into the interior life; the nature of the soul; of heaven and heavenly joy;and of hell, its nature and its miseries. It also treats of the Grand Man, or the whole angelic heaven, and the correspondence of the societies therein with the different organs and senses of the body; the origin and correspondence of diseases; the spirits and inhabitants of the various planets, and of other earths in the starry heavens. All of which are related to a true understanding of the Divine Word.This is book #12 out of 12 and covers Exodus 29 - 40.

This work, originally published in 1763, treats of the operation of Divine love and Divine wisdom in the creation of the universe, including man as the chief end of creation. It explains the trinal distinction that exists in all created things, from the trinity in God, and shows how this is manifested in man, who is the image of the Divine. It unfolds the doctrine of Degrees, and explains the three discrete degrees of the human mind, showing how these are opened, and what is effected thereby. It also explains the origin of evil uses, and the origin, design, and tendency of good uses. It sets forth fully and clearly the philosophical basis of these doctrines; and is a work that no student of philosophy can afford to overlook.

This is an exposition of the internal or spiritual sense of the books of Genesis and Exodus, according to the law of correspondences. It unfolds the spiritual significance of the creation; of the stories of Adam and Eve, and of the deluge; of the lives of the patriarchs; of the captivity of the chosen people in Egypt and of their deliverance therefrom, and of their subsequent history; of the ritual of the Jewish religion, its sacrifices and observances:and in general, traces the foreshadowing through both books of the incarnation and glorification of the Lord Jesus Christ. Many passages from other parts of the Word are also fully explained.Relations of things heard and seen in the spiritual world are interspersed, explaining the process of dying, and of mans resuscitation and conscious entrance into the interior life; the nature of the soul; of heaven and heavenly joy;and of hell, its nature and its miseries. It also treats of the Grand Man, or the whole angelic heaven, and the correspondence of the societies therein with the different organs and senses of the body; the origin and correspondence of diseases; the spirits and inhabitants of the various planets, and of other earths in the starry heavens. All of which are related to a true understanding of the Divine Word.This is book #2 out of 12 and covers Genesis 10 - 17

This is an exposition of the internal or spiritual sense of the books of Genesis and Exodus, according to the law of correspondences. It unfolds the spiritual significance of the creation; of the stories of Adam and Eve, and of the deluge; of the lives of the patriarchs; of the captivity of the chosen people in Egypt and of their deliverance therefrom, and of their subsequent history; of the ritual of the Jewish religion, its sacrifices and observances:and in general, traces the foreshadowing through both books of the incarnation and glorification of the Lord Jesus Christ. Many passages from other parts of the Word are also fully explained.Relations of things heard and seen in the spiritual world are interspersed, explaining the process of dying, and of mans resuscitation and conscious entrance into the interior life; the nature of the soul; of heaven and heavenly joy;and of hell, its nature and its miseries. It also treats of the Grand Man, or the whole angelic heaven, and the correspondence of the societies therein with the different organs and senses of the body; the origin and correspondence of diseases; the spirits and inhabitants of the various planets, and of other earths in the starry heavens. All of which are related to a true understanding of the Divine Word.This is book #4 out of 12 and covers Genesis 23 - 27.

This work, published in 1768, when Swedenborg was eighty years of age, was the first of the authors theological works on the title of which his name appeared. It treats of the relation of the sexes; of the nature and origin of love truly conjugial and of its indissoluble nature; of the marriage of the Lord and the Church, and its correspondence; of the spiritual conjunction of partners in true marriage; of the change effected in both sexes by marriage; of the causes of disaffection, separations, and divorces; of the causes of apparent love, friendship, and favor in marriage; and of iterated marriages. To which is appended a treatise on Adulterous or Scortatory Love in its various degrees, showing it to be in its nature the very opposite of Conjugial Love.