2289. About a portrayal of the crossing of Jordan

When I was reading Joshua chapter 3 about the crossing of the Jordan, many were seized with burning desire to portray to each other the crossing of the Jordan, because the land of Canaan symbolizes heaven, and so they would come into heaven. This was then granted them, and for a whole hour or more, they were portrayed crossing the Jordan, together with their families and their possessions, the ark going before them and staying in the midst of the Jordan until they had passed across.

These particulars were all depicted most beautifully before their eyes, and it was put in their minds at the time to suppose it was none but the reality. From time to time I sensed with what diligence and eagerness they were crossing, and how afterwards, when they had crossed over, they rejoiced at heart. They went on with this for a whole hour, or two, and meanwhile other spirits, thinking that this was all fantasy, were trying to disturb them with various tricks, but in vain. They were safe throughout and, as they declare now, they crossed over.