Arcana Coelestia # 45
45. This was how people who lived in most ancient times envisaged matters of the understanding and those of the will. Among the Prophets therefore, and consistently throughout the Old Testament Word, like matters are represented by various kinds of living creatures. There are two kinds of beasts - evil ones, because they are harmful, and good ones, because they are gentle. Evil [and harmful] things in man were meant by such beasts as bears, wolves, and dogs, while good and gentle things were meant by beasts such as calves, sheep, and lambs. As the subject here is those persons who are to be regenerated, 'the beasts' are good and gentle ones, which mean affections. Things of a baser nature that derive from the body are called 'wild animals of the earth'. These are desires and pleasures.
#160 Another Breach: The Bible Seems Crude, Archaic, Irrational and Unscientific
Napsal(a) Jonathan S. Rose
Title: Another Breach: The Bible Seems Crude and Archaic, Irrational and Unscientific
Topic: Second Coming
Summary: We look at how Scripture is viewed from a "scientific" standpoint, and ponder the future of religion and science.
Use the reference links below to follow along in the Bible as you watch.
References:
Exodus 4:24-26
Matthew 11:7-9
Esther 8:11
Genesis 1:26
Matthew 27:3-6
Acts of the Apostles 1:16
Isaiah 19:23-25
Ezekiel 29:1-ff