Heavenly Doctrine (Chadwick) n. 4

Previous Number Next Number Next Translation See Latin 

4. It must further be appreciated that this new heaven is distinct from the ancient heavens, which existed before the Lord's coming. Still the former ones fall into such a pattern with this that taken together they make up a single heaven. The reason why this new heaven is distinct from the ancient heavens is that teaching in the ancient churches was about nothing but love and charity, and at that time they knew nothing of teaching about faith separated from love. This too is why the ancient heavens make up the upper levels, but the new heaven a level beneath them. For the heavens are on different levels, one above the other. The highest levels contain those called celestial angels, most of whom are from the Most Ancient church. Those in them are called celestial angels from celestial love, which is love directed to the Lord. The levels below them contain those called spiritual angels, most of whom are from the Ancient church. Those in them are called spiritual angels from spiritual love, which is charity directed towards the neighbour. Below them are the angels who possess the good of faith; these are those who have lived lives of faith. Living a life of faith means living in accordance with the teaching of one's church, and living means willing and doing. Still all these heavens make one through the direct and indirect inflow from the Lord.


This page is part of the Writings of Emanuel Swedenborg

© 2000-2001 The Academy of the New Church