2497. The Lord’s state in which He was when He first instructed Himself in the doctrinal things of charity and faith is treated of; the state itself is signified by “Kadesh and Shur;” the doctrine of faith by “Abimelech king of Gerar” (verses 1-2). That He at first thought in regard to the rational that it should be consulted (verse 2). That still it was not consulted (verses 3-4, 8-9). The reasons why He so thought (verses 5-6, 10 to 13). That the doctrine of charity and faith is spiritual from a celestial origin (verse 7). That He was so instructed; and that then all things rational, as well as all memory-knowledges, were of service to Him, being like a covering or garment (verses 14-16). And in this way the doctrine was perfect (verse 17). That it would have been otherwise if the doctrine had come from the rational (verse 18).