Doc. of Lord (Dick) n. 2

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2. That the Word which is here specifically meant is the same as that which was manifested through Moses and the Prophets, and through the Evangelists, may clearly appear from this consideration, that this Word is Divine Truth itself, from which is derived all wisdom with angels, and all spiritual intelligence with men. For angels have in the heavens the very same Word that men have in the world; save only that in the world with men it is natural, whereas in the heavens it is spiritual. Moreover, since the Word is Divine Truth, it is also the Divine proceeding; and this is not only from the Lord, but it is also the Lord Himself. As this Word is the Lord Himself, therefore all things in general and in particular of the Word are written concerning Him alone: from Isaiah even to Malachi there is not anything which is not about the Lord, or, in the opposite sense, against the Lord.

[2] That this is the case, has not hitherto been seen by anyone; but yet everyone may see it, provided he is made aware of it, thinks of it whilst he reads, and further knows that in the Word there is not only a natural sense but also a spiritual sense; and that in this spiritual sense, by the names of persons and of places is signified something of the Lord, and consequently something of heaven and of the Church from Him, or something of an opposite sense. Now, as all things in general and in particular of the Word concern the Lord, and as the Word, because it is Divine Truth, is the Lord, it clearly appears why it is said, "and the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory"; and also why it is said, "While ye have the light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light ... I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness." The light is the Divine Truth, and consequently the Word. Therefore everyone, even at the present day, who, whilst reading the Word, approaches the Lord alone, and prays to Him, is enlightened therein.


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