8681. And Aaron came, and all the elders of Israel. That this signifies the things of the church which are primary, is evident from the representation of Aaron, as being the truth of doctrine (see n. 6998, 7009, 7089, 7382); and from the representation of the elders of Israel, as being the chief truths of the church that are in agreement with good (n. 6524, 8578, 8585); for by “Israel” is signified the church (n. 8645).

8585. And Moses did so before the eyes of the elders of Israel. That this signifies the effect by means of primary truths, is evident from the signification of “Moses did so,” as being the effect; and from the signification of “the elders of Israel,” as being primary truths (see n. 8578). It was previously said that Moses should “take with him of the elders of Israel,” and now that he did so “in the sight of the elders of Israel,” because faith is given by means of truth, and indeed by means of primary truths; for enlightenment is effected by virtue of these, so that the truths flowing from them, which are called “secondary,” may be clearly perceived.