2497. The chapter deals with the Lord's state when He first received instruction in matters of doctrine regarding charity and faith. The state itself is meant by Kadesh and Shur; the doctrine of faith by Abimelech the king of Gerar, verses 1-2. To begin with He thought regarding the rational, that it should be consulted, verse 2, but it was not in fact consulted, verses 3-4, 8-9. The reasons why He thought in this way, verses 5-6, 10-12, 13. The doctrine of charity and faith is spiritual deriving from a celestial origin, verse 7. Such was the manner of His instruction, during which all rational concepts, and factual knowledge as well, served Him like a garment or clothing, verses 14-16. And in this way the doctrine was perfect, verse 17, which it would not have been if it had derived from the rational, verse 18.