In the Bible, things that are lower down, or under, physically, generally represent things that are lower or more external spiritually. In some cases, the lower things have been separated and put away to protect the good, but in others, it can mean that a less exalted idea or good desire is supporting a more exalted one.

(References: Arcana Coelestia 4564 [1-2], 8610, 9656)

'Punishment' is the consummation of evil, because after punishment, reformation succeeds. This is why it says in Deuteronomy 25:3, 'that no more than forty stripes should be struck, lest thy brother become vile in thine eyes,' because 'forty' signifies the end of evil and the beginning of good, which is why 'more than forty stripes,' would not signify the beginning of good, or reformation.

(References: Apocalypse Explained 633)