2389. 'Sons-in-law' are truths coupled to affections for good and truth, here truths that have yet to be so coupled. This is clear from the meaning of 'sons-in-law'. 'Man' in the Word means truth, and 'wife' good, 265, 749, 915, 1007, the reason being that a likeness of a marriage exists between truth and good, 1432, 1904, 2173. Consequently 'sons-in-law' means cognitions of truth to which affections for good, meant by 'daughters', have been coupled. Here however they are affections that have yet to be so coupled, for it is said in verse 14 below that Lot went out and spoke to his sons-in-law that were marrying, that is, were about to marry, his daughters.

749. 'Male and female' means truth and good. This is clear from what has been stated already at Chapter 6:19 where 'male and female' have reference to birds, but 'male and mate' ¹ to beasts. The reason is also stated there, namely, that things of the will are married to those of the understanding, but less so those of the understanding regarded in themselves to those of the will. The former exist as male and mate ¹ but the latter as male and female. Now because here the subject first of all is the temptation of that man as regards things of the understanding, as has been stated, the phrase 'male and female' is used, and conflict, or temptation as regards things of the understanding, is meant.

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