385. With sword, signifies by falsity. This is evident from the signification of "sword," as being truth fighting against falsity and destroying it; and in a contrary sense falsity fighting against truth and destroying it (of which above, n. 131, 367).

5629. 'Grant you mercy before the man' means so that spiritual truth may accept you favourably. This is clear from the meaning of 'granting mercy' as accepting favourably, and from the representation of Joseph, when he is called 'the man', as spiritual truth, as above in 5627.