303. In the celestial sense this commandment means being linked with the Lord, leading to peace as the result of protection from hell. The Sabbath means rest and, in this highest sense, peace. That is why the Lord is called the Prince of peace, and He calls Himself peace; this can be seen from the following passages:
A child is born for us, a son is given to us, on whose shoulder is the dominion, and his name will be called Wonderful, Counsellor, God, Hero, the everlasting Father, the Prince of peace. Of the extension of his dominion and peace there will be no end. Isa. 9:6, 7.
Jesus said, I leave peace with you, my peace I give to you. John 14:27.
Jesus said, I have said these things so that you may have peace in me. John 16:33.
How pleasant upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news and makes us hear of peace, saying, Your God* reigns. Isa. 52:7.
Jehovah shall redeem my soul in peace. Ps. 55:18.
The work of righteousness** is peace, the toil of righteousness is rest, and safety for ever, so that they may dwell in the dwelling of peace, and in the tents of safety and in tranquil ease. Isa. 32:17, 18.
Jesus said to the seventy whom He sent out, Whatever house you enter, first say, Peace be upon this house***; and if there be a son of peace there, let your peace rest upon him. Luke 10:5, 6; Matt. 10:12-14.
Jehovah will speak peace to His people, righteousness and peace will kiss each other. Ps. 85:8, 10.
When the Lord Himself appeared to the disciples, He said, Peace be with you. John 20:19, 21, 26.
Moreover, Isaiah (chapters 65 and 66 and elsewhere) deals with the state of peace, into which the Lord will bring them. The people who will be brought into this state are those who are received into the new church which is being established by the Lord at the present time. It may be seen in my book HEAVEN AND HELL (284-290) what is the essence of this peace enjoyed by the angels of heaven and those who are in the Lord. This reference also makes it plain why the Lord calls Himself the Lord of the Sabbath, that is, of rest and peace.
* The Latin text has 'Your King', but this is corrected in the author's copy; cf. AC 8331. ** The Latin text has 'Jehovah', but this is corrected in the author's copy; cf. AC 3780, HH 287 *** The Latin text has 'The peace of the Lord', but this is corrected in the author's copy.
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