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.

To fly, and go forth abroad, as in Genesis 39:12, signifies that separation was made, or that there was no longer anything common. To fly, when related to the Lord, also signifies omnipresence.

To fly from the face of any one, as in Genesis 16:6, signifies indignation.

To fly, and to fall, as in Genesis 14:10, signifies to be conquered.

To fly, as in Psalm 18:11, signifies to enlighten the middle heaven. To fly, when spoken of the Lord, signifies to foresee and to provide.

To fly, as a cloud, and as doves to their windows, as in Isaiah 60:7, 8, signifies inquiry and investigation into truth, from the literal sense of the Word.

To fly, in the midst of heaven, as in Revelation 8:13, signifies to instruct and foretell.

(References: Apocalypse Revealed 244; Revelation 12, 12:14, Revelation 14)