385. With sword, signifies by falsity. This is evident from the signification of "sword," as being truth fighting against falsity and destroying it; and in a contrary sense falsity fighting against truth and destroying it (of which above, n. 131, 367).

2812. 'And laid the pieces of wood in order' means the righteousness that was allied to it. This is clear from the meaning of 'the pieces of wood for a burnt offering' as the merit of righteousness, dealt with above in 2784, 2798, and of 'laying the pieces of wood in order on the altar' as allying it to the Divine human. The merit of righteousness is allied when it is present, and there is from truth the conviction that it belongs to Him.