Spiritual Experiences (Odhner) n. 156

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156. About the Three classes of angels*

Angels of the first class are to be called Heavenly; they are governed directly by God the Messiah through Love; they have a lofty Understanding of goodness, and of its truth. Angels of the second class are to be called truly Spiritual; they are governed by God the Messiah indirectly through heavenly angels. Angels of the third class are to be called feelings or Goodnesses; they are governed through heavenly angels, as well as spiritual ones, thus indirectly by God the Messiah; for their intelligence and wisdom is not of that quality that they can be governed directly. The rest are called Spirits, among whom there is immeasurably great diversity. Angels ascend according to their perfection and are therefore to be called higher and lower; or if they are being introduced [into heaven], then they are to be called inward, very inward, and innermost. Now these are symbolized by Jacob, Isaac, and Abraham; and also by Egypt, Assyria, and Israel in Is. 19:25. * The first half of this paragraph and the entire previous paragraph is emphasized in the original by the word "Obs." written four times in the margin.


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