Arcana Coelestia #4
4. As long as the mind confines itself to the sense of the letter alone one cannot possibly see that its contents are such. Take for instance these first sections of Genesis: From the sense of the letter the only subject matter people recognize is the creation of the world, and the Garden of Eden which is called Paradise, and Adam as the first man to be created. Who thinks anything different? The fact that these things contain arcana however which have never been revealed up to now will be sufficiently clear from what follows - especially clear from the fact that the subject of Genesis 1 is, in the internal sense, the NEW CREATION of man, that is, in general his REGENERATION, and in particular the Most Ancient Church. And the subject is presented in such a way that not the smallest part of any expression fails to have a representation, carry a spiritual meaning, or embody something within itself.
Psalms 120
1
In my distress, I cried to Yahweh. He answered me.
2
Deliver my soul, Yahweh, from lying lips, from a deceitful tongue.
3
What will be given to you, and what will be done more to you, you deceitful tongue?
4
Sharp arrows of the mighty, with coals of juniper.
5
Woe is me, that I live in Meshech, that I dwell among the tents of Kedar!
6
My soul has had her dwelling too long with him who hates peace.
7
I am for peace, but when I speak, they are for war. A Song of Ascents.
