4671. Was feeding the flock with his brethren. That this signifies that it was present with those who were in faith and taught, is evident from the signification of “feeding the flock,” as being to teach, specifically from doctrinal things, those who are in the church. (That a feeder of the flock or “shepherd” denotes one who teaches may be seen above, n. 343, 3772, 3795.) Here is signified that it was present with those who taught, because it is said that “Joseph was feeding with his brethren;” for his brethren in this chapter represent the church which turns away from charity to faith, and at last to faith separate, and so to falsities, as will appear in what follows.