2389. That the “sons-in-law” are the truths that are associated with the affections of good and of truth, in this case that were to be associated, is evident from the signification of “sons-in-law.” In the Word “a man” signifies truth, and a “wife” good (n. 265, 749, 915, 1007), for the reason that between truth and good there is a likeness of a marriage (n. 1432, 1904, 2173). Hence “sons-in-law” signify the knowledges of truth, with which are associated the affections of good (denoted by the “daughters”), but which here are to be associated, for it is said afterwards, in verse 14, that Lot went out and spoke to his sons-in-law that were marrying, that is, were about to marry his daughters.

1006. From the hand of every wild beast. That this signifies from all that is violent in man, is evident from the signification of “wild beast.” In the Word “wild beast” [fera] signifies what is living (as shown n. 908), but in the opposite sense it signifies what is like a wild beast, thus whatever is ferine in man (as also shown above). Therefore it signifies a man of such life, namely, a violent man, or one who inflicts violence on charity; for he is like a wild beast. Man is a man from love and charity, but he is a wild beast from hatred, revenge, and cruelty.