In the Bible, there is a careful distinction between the word “brother” and the word “companion” or “friend.” That’s partly because the people of Israel used the word “brother” to identify another Hebrew and “companion” for a non-Hebrew acquaintance. But as you might expect, it also has a spiritual significance. According to Swedenborg, “brother” represents people or spiritual states that are linked through shared loves - a similar desire for good. “Companion” or “friend” represents people or spiritual states linked through shared thoughts and ideas – a powerful link, but not as internal as “brother.”

8417. 'And the people will go out' means the consequent life. This is clear from the meaning of 'going' as living or life, dealt with in 1293, 3335, 4882, 5493, 5605; and 'going out' here, that is, going to collect the manna, has a similar meaning. Regarding the meaning of 'going' as life, see also 8420.