1219. THAT THE THOUGHTS AND DEEDS OF SOULS CAN BE DETECTED IN LIKE MANNER AS THOSE OF MEN Souls have been examined, but in such a manner that I was not aware what they had thought and done in their lifetime. But it was said to me by the angels, through spirits, that the souls of men [who have died] can be explored as to what they have thought and done during their life, equally as well as those of men [still alive], concerning which frequently above, for there is an almost similar relationship; but that this is not so permitted for the reason that they are then among spirits who desire both to judge and to punish without regard [to the circumstances], and thus without judgment; wherefore this is not permitted. 1748, Mar. 7.