7285. And Aaron was a son of three and eighty years. That this signifies the state and quality of doctrine, is evident from the representation of Aaron, as being the doctrine of the church (see n. 6998, 7009, 7089); and from the signification of the number “three and eighty,” as being the state and quality, namely, of this doctrine. But the specific state and quality cannot be known except from the reduction of this number into its simple numbers, and afterward from its application to those with whom doctrine is. (As to numbers in the Word further, see just above, n. 7284)

7009. And it shall be that he shall be to thee for a mouth. That this signifies the truth of doctrine, which also proceeds mediately from the Lord, is evident from the representation of Aaron, who was to be “to Moses for a mouth,” as being doctrine (see n. 6998); and from the signification of “being to Moses for a mouth,” as being his utterance or preaching (n. 6987). It is said the truth of doctrine which also proceeds mediately from the Lord, because the truth of doctrine, which is represented by Aaron, is such as is heard and perceived by angels and men. This truth is what proceeds mediately from the Lord; but the truth which is represented by Moses, is that which proceeds from the Lord immediately, and is not heard or perceived by men, nor even by angels (n. 6982, 6985, 6996, 7004).