Page:The Swedenborg Library Vol 3.djvu/165

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EXALTATION OF FAITH.
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the eye, and from the concupiscences of the flesh; consequently, more happy in itself. It becomes, especially, more powerful against evils and falsities, and therefore more and more living and saving.

All truth in heaven shines, and truth shining is faith in essence. Therefore the beauty and symmetry of faith when its truths arc multiplied, may be compared with various forms, objects and pictures formed of different colors fitly arranged according to agreements; consequently, with the precious stones of diverse colors in the breastplate of Aaron, which together were called Urim and Thummim; likewise with the precious stones of which the foundations of the wall of the New Jerusalem are to be built. It may also be compared with the precious stones of divers colors in the crown of a king. Precious stones also signify truths of faith. A comparison may be made, also, with the beauty of the rainbow, and with the beauty of a flowery field, and also of a garden blossoming in early springtime. The light and glory of faith from a copious store of truths composing and adorning it, may be compared with the illumination of temples by multiplied chandeliers of houses by candles, and of streets by lamps. The exaltation of faith by a copious store of truths, may be illustrated by comparison with the exaltation of sound, and likewise of melody, from many musical instruments in a concert; and also with the exaltation of fragrance from a collection of sweet-smelling flowers; and with other things. The power of faith composed of many

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