4395. 'As he was coming from Paddan Aram' means that which happened after the previous state. This is clear from the meaning of 'as he was coming' as that which happened after, and from the meaning of 'Paddan Aram' as cognitions of good and truth, dealt with in 3664, 4107, 4112, though exterior cognitions which serve in the introduction of genuine goods and truths; for Laban dwelt there, and he represents the affection for that kind of good, see 3612, 3665, 3778, 3974, 3982, 3986 (end), 4063, 4189, 4206. Consequently the words 'as he was coming from Paddan Aram' are used because the point was reached when external truths and goods gave way to interior, and so when the previous state gave way to the present one.

3981. 'I have learned from experience, and Jehovah has blessed me for your sake' means originating in the Divine, for the sake of the good of the natural which it is to serve. This is clear from the meaning of 'learning from experience that Jehovah has blessed' as knowing for certain of its origin in the Divine. That this was for the sake of the good of the natural which it is to serve is meant by 'for your sake'. For 'Jacob' means the good of natural truth, 3659, 3669, 3677, 3775, 3829, and 'Laban' the parallel good which serves it, as shown above in various places; and see also below in 3982, 3986.