328. Then white robes were given to each of them. (6:11) This symbolically means that they were given a communication and conjunction with angels who possessed Divine truths.
Garments symbolize truths (no. 166), and white garments symbolize genuine truths (no. 212). This is the symbolism of garments because all the inhabitants in heaven are clothed in accordance with the truths they possess, and every spirit has a garment in keeping with his conjunction with angelic societies. Consequently, when a conjunction exists, spirits instantly appear similarly clothed. So it is that white robes being given to each of the people here. This symbolically means that they were given a communication and conjunction with angels who possessed Divine truths.
Robes, gowns, and cloaks symbolize truths in general, because they are general coverings. Someone who knows this symbolism that these have can know the secrets that lie concealed in the following instances:
That when Elijah found Elisha, he threw his mantle on him (1 Kings 19:19).
That Elijah used his mantle to part the waters of the Jordan (2 Kings 2:8).
That Elisha did likewise (2 Kings 2:14).
That when Elijah was taken up, the mantle that was upon him fell, and Elisha picked it up (2 Kings 2:12-13)
For Elijah and Elisha represented the Lord in relation to the Word, and therefore their mantle symbolized the Word's Divine truth in general.
That same person may know, too, what was symbolized by the robe of Aaron's ephod, on whose hem were pomegranates of blue and purple, and bells of gold (Exodus 28:31-35). It symbolized Divine truth in general, as may be seen in Arcana Coelestia (The Secrets of Heaven), published in London, no. 9825.
Mantles and robes have a similar symbolism in the following passages:
...all the princes of the sea will come down from their thrones and cast aside their mantles... (Ezekiel 26:16)
(The scribes and Pharisees) to be seen by men... enlarge the borders of their mantles. (Matthew 23:5)
My people have set themselves as an enemy over a garment; you pull off the robe... from those who pass by... (Micah 2:8)
And so on elsewhere.
