3165. And gave to Rebekah. That this signifies which then were of the affection of truth, is evident from the representation of Rebekah, as being the affection of truth (see n. 2865, 3077). By the things mentioned just above-the vessels of silver, the vessels of gold, and the garments-is described the affection of truth, as a bride; wherefore by these words is signified that such then was the affection of truth; or what is the same, that those things then were of the affection of truth.

2066. And I will give thee a son from her also. That this signifies the rational, is evident from the signification of a “son,” as being truth (see n. 489, 491, 533, 1147); and as all that is rational begins from truth, the rational is here signified by a “son.” The Lord’s first rational was represented and signified by Ishmael, born of Hagar the handmaid treated of in the preceding chapter 16. . The second rational, treated of here, is represented and signified by Isaac who was to be born from Sarah. The former, that is, the rational represented by Ishmael, was the rational that was afterwards expelled from the house; but this second rational, represented by Isaac, is that which remained in the house, because it was Divine. But concerning this rational, of the Lord’s Divine mercy we shall speak in the following chapter, where Isaac is treated of.