Exploring the Meaning of Genesis 49
By New Christian Bible Study Staff
Here are some excerpts from Swedenborg's "Arcana Coelestia" that help explain the inner meaning of this chapter:
AC 6328. In this chapter the subject treated of in the internal sense is not the descendants of Jacob, and what would befall them; but the truths of faith and the goods of love which the twelve tribes named from the sons of Jacob represent and signify.
AC 6329. It first treats of faith separated from charity, which is utterly rejected. This faith is "Reuben," " Simeon," and "Levi."
AC 6330. It then treats of the celestial church, which is the "tribe of Judah,’ and in the supreme sense there, of the Divine Human of the Lord.
AC 6331. Then of the rest of the tribes according to the states of good and truth which they represent.
AC 6332. Lastly of the celestial spiritual church which is "Joseph;" and here also in the supreme sense of the Divine Human of the Lord.