Sacred Scripture # 36
36. The Word in its outermost or earthly meaning, which is its literal meaning, is also meant by the wall of the holy Jerusalem, which was made of jasper, by the foundations of the wall, which were precious stones, as well as by the gates, which were pearls (Revelation 21:18-21). This is because Jerusalem means the church in regard to its teachings. There will be more on this, though, under the next heading [§]. We may now conclude from what has been presented that the literal meaning of the Word, which is earthly, is the foundation, container, and support of its inner meanings, which are a spiritual meaning and a heavenly meaning.
Psalms 65:5-13
5
By awesome deeds of righteousness, you answer us, God of our salvation. You who are the hope of all the ends of the earth, of those who are far away on the sea;
6
Who by his power forms the mountains, having armed yourself with strength;
7
who stills the roaring of the seas, the roaring of their waves, and the turmoil of the nations.
8
They also who dwell in faraway places are afraid at your wonders. You call the morning's dawn and the evening with songs of joy.
9
You visit the earth, and water it. You greatly enrich it. The river of God is full of water. You provide them grain, for so you have ordained it.
10
You drench its furrows. You level its ridges. You soften it with showers. You bless it with a crop.
11
You crown the year with your bounty. Your carts overflow with abundance.
12
The wilderness grasslands overflow. The hills are clothed with gladness.
13
The pastures are covered with flocks. The valleys also are clothed with grain. They shout for joy! They also sing. For the Chief Musician. A song. A Psalm.
