2769. And said unto him, Abraham. That this signifies the Lord’s perception from Divine truth, is evident from the signification of “saying” in the historical statements of the Word, as being to perceive (see n. 1898, 1919, 2080, 2619); and from the representation of Abraham, as being the Lord. That the perception was from Divine truth, may be seen from the fact that “God” is named, and not “Jehovah;” for where truth is treated of in the Word, there “God” is named; but where good is treated of, there “Jehovah” is named (see n. 2586). Hence it is that it is said “God” in this verse and also in those which follow, to verse 11, for the reason that temptation is there treated of. And that it is said “Jehovah” in verse 11 (Genesis 22:11) and those that follow, is because liberation is then treated of; for all temptation and condemnation is from truth, but all liberation and salvation is from good. (That truth condemns and good saves may be seen above, n. 1685, 2258, 2335)

2080. God said. That this signifies an answer perceived, is evident from the signification of “saying,” as being to perceive (explained just above, n. 2077). And as in the preceding verse we read that “Abraham said,” and this signified perception, and as here we read that “God said,” or answered, it follows that this signifies an answer perceived, or an answer of perception. In all perception whatever there is both a propounding and a reply. The perception of both of these is here expressed in the historical sense by the words “Abraham said unto God,” and “God said.” (That “God said” denotes to perceive, may be seen above, n. 1791, 1815, 1819, 1822, 1898, 1919; and also in this chapter repeatedly.)