Apocalypse Explained, volume 1 - Swedenborg Foundation

APOCALYPSE EXPLAINED 55apostles,” have a like signification, and the numbers “twelve,” “onehundred and forty-four,” and “twelve thousand” signify all thingsand all persons.[5] Furthermore, he who is aware that such things are signified bythe twelve tribes can see the arcanum in this:Why the names of the twelve tribes were engraved on the preciousstones in the Urim and Thummim, likewise what that breastplatesignified (Exod. 28:21; 39:10–15).(This arcanum may be seen unfolded in Arcana Coelestia, n. 3858,6335, 6640, 9863, 9865, 9873, 9874, 9905.) He can also see whatis signified by this:That the twelve apostles should sit upon twelve thrones, and are tojudge the twelve tribes of Israel (Matt. 19:28);namely, that the Lord alone will judge everyone by truths fromgood (n. 2129, 6397). Also what is meant by:The predictions of Israel, the father, respecting his sons (Gen.49:2–28);as well as numerous other passages of the Word, where tribes arementioned (as in Isa. 19:13; 49:6; 63:17; Jer. 10:16; Ezek. 48:1seq.; Ps. 122:3–5; Deut. 32:8; Num. 24:2; Rev. 5:9; 7:4–9; 11:9;13:7; 14:6; and elsewhere).[6] Again, what is meant by the Lord’s Word respecting theconsummation of the age and his coming:After the affliction of those days the sun shall be darkened, and themoon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, andthe powers of the heavens shall be shaken; and then shall appear the signof the son of man in heaven; and then shall all the tribes of the earthlament; and they shall see the son of man coming in the clouds ofheaven, with power and great glory (Matt. 24:29–30).