3664. Go to Paddan-aram. That this signifies the knowledges of such truth, is evident from the signification of “Aram,” or “Syria,” as being knowledges (see n. 1232, 1234, 3249). That “Paddan-aram” signifies the knowledges of truth is because it was in Syria of the rivers, where Nahor, Bethuel, and Laban dwelt; and that by “Syria” are signified the knowledges of truth may be seen above (n. 3051). Paddan-aram is also mentioned above (25:20), and again below (31:18); in which places likewise it signifies the knowledges of truth.

1234. That “Aram” signifies the knowledges of good, has been shown just above. That “the sons of Aram” are the derivative knowledges, and the things which are of knowledges, follows. These derivative knowledges are natural truths; and the things which are of knowledges are the things done according to them. That these things are signified cannot be so well confirmed from the Word, because these are not among the names that are frequently mentioned. Only Uz is mentioned, in Jeremiah 25:20, and Lamentations 4:21. It follows then that “Uz, Hul, Gether, and Mash” signify so many kinds of these knowledges, and of deeds according thereto.