Emanuel Swedenborg Famous Quotes and Affirmations

Emanuel Swedenborg, an 18th-century Swedish scientist, philosopher, and mystic, left an indelible mark on theology, philosophy, and spiritual thought. Born in 1688 in Stockholm, Sweden, he was initially renowned for his contributions to science and engineering before turning to spiritual matters in his later years. Swedenborg claimed to have direct communication with the spiritual world, which profoundly influenced his voluminous writings on theology and the afterlife. His ideas inspired the New Church, a Christian denomination based on his revelations, and influenced literary figures like William Blake and Ralph Waldo Emerson. This article explores Swedenborg’s enduring wisdom through his verified quotes, famous aphorisms, and affirmations inspired by his teachings. It also delves into his main ideas, achievements, magnum opus, and lesser-known facts, offering a comprehensive look at a man whose work bridged the material and spiritual realms, shaping religious and philosophical discourse for centuries.

Emanuel Swedenborg Best Quotes

Below are verified quotes from Emanuel Swedenborg’s original works, complete with precise citations from historical sources. These quotes reflect his profound insights into spirituality, human nature, and the divine.

• “Man was so created by the Lord as to be able while living in the body to speak with spirits and angels, as in fact was done in the most ancient times; for, being a spirit clothed with a body, he is one with them.” – Emanuel Swedenborg, Arcana Coelestia (1749-1756), p. 69
• “Love in its essence is spiritual fire.” – Emanuel Swedenborg, True Christian Religion (1771), p. 31
• “The Divine of the Lord in heaven is love, for the reason that love is receptive of all things of heaven, such as peace, intelligence, wisdom and happiness.” – Emanuel Swedenborg, Heaven and Hell (1758), p. 13
• “All religion is of the life, and the life of religion is to do that which is good.” – Emanuel Swedenborg, The Doctrine of the New Jerusalem Concerning Life (1763), p. 1
• “Peace has in it confidence in the Lord, that He directs all things, and provides all things, and that He leads to a good end.” – Emanuel Swedenborg, Arcana Coelestia (1749-1756), p. 8453

Famous Emanuel Swedenborg Aphorisms

Swedenborg’s works contain concise, memorable statements that encapsulate his spiritual and philosophical insights. Below are verified aphorisms sourced from his writings with exact citations.

• “To will and not to do when there is opportunity is in reality not to will.” – Emanuel Swedenborg, Divine Providence (1764), p. 71
• “The more closely one is conjoined to the Lord, the more distinctly does he perceive what is good and true.” – Emanuel Swedenborg, Arcana Coelestia (1749-1756), p. 937
• “Evil is not removed except by shunning it as sin.” – Emanuel Swedenborg, True Christian Religion (1771), p. 123

Affirmations Inspired by Emanuel Swedenborg

These affirmations are inspired by Swedenborg’s teachings on love, wisdom, the divine, and the interconnectedness of the spiritual and material worlds. They are not direct quotes but are crafted to reflect his core ideas for personal growth and spiritual reflection.

1. I seek the divine love that warms my heart and guides my actions.
2. My spirit is connected to the eternal wisdom of the universe.
3. I trust in the divine order that leads me to a higher purpose.
4. Every act of kindness reflects the spiritual fire within me.
5. I embrace the peace that comes from faith in a greater plan.
6. My life is a balance of body and spirit, united in purpose.
7. I strive to live a life of goodness, for it is the essence of true religion.
8. I am open to the unseen truths that surround me.
9. Love is my guiding light in all that I do.
10. I seek wisdom to understand the deeper meanings of life.
11. My soul is a reflection of divine harmony.
12. I trust in the unseen forces that shape my destiny.
13. Every day, I grow closer to the source of all love and truth.
14. I let go of evil by choosing the path of righteousness.
15. My heart is a vessel for divine peace.
16. I am guided by the eternal truths of the spiritual realm.
17. I see the divine in every person and every moment.
18. My actions are inspired by a higher calling.
19. I cultivate love and wisdom in equal measure.
20. I am part of a greater whole, connected to all creation.
21. I trust that all challenges lead to spiritual growth.
22. My spirit is uplifted by the beauty of divine order.
23. I seek to understand the mysteries of heaven and earth.
24. Love flows through me, healing and uplifting others.
25. I am a channel for divine goodness in the world.
26. My faith sustains me through all trials.
27. I embrace the spiritual light that illuminates my path.
28. I live with intention, aligning my will with the divine.
29. My soul rejoices in the presence of eternal truth.
30. I am at peace, knowing I am guided by a higher power.
31. I seek the deeper connections between all things.
32. My life reflects the harmony of heaven on earth.
33. I trust in the divine providence that shapes my journey.
34. I am inspired by the infinite wisdom of the Creator.
35. My heart is open to the lessons of the spiritual world.
36. I strive to embody love in every thought and deed.
37. I am a seeker of truth, guided by divine insight.
38. My spirit is renewed by faith in the eternal.
39. I walk a path of goodness, inspired by higher truths.
40. I trust in the unseen hand that guides my life.
41. My soul is attuned to the rhythms of divine love.
42. I seek to bring light to others through my actions.
43. I am grounded in the knowledge of spiritual realities.
44. My life is a testament to the power of divine love.
45. I embrace the journey of spiritual awakening.
46. I am connected to the eternal source of all wisdom.
47. My heart is filled with the peace of divine understanding.
48. I live in harmony with the spiritual laws of the universe.
49. I trust in the divine plan that unfolds in my life.
50. I am a reflection of the infinite love and wisdom of the Creator.

Main Ideas and Achievements of Emanuel Swedenborg

Emanuel Swedenborg was a polymath whose life and work spanned an extraordinary range of disciplines, from science and engineering to theology and mysticism. Born on January 29, 1688, in Stockholm, Sweden, he was the son of a Lutheran bishop, which provided him with a strong religious foundation from an early age. His intellectual curiosity and rigorous education led him to excel in the natural sciences, and he became one of the most respected scientists of his time in Europe. However, in his mid-fifties, Swedenborg underwent a profound spiritual transformation that shifted his focus to theological and mystical pursuits, resulting in a body of work that continues to influence religious thought and philosophy to this day.

In his early career, Swedenborg made significant contributions to various scientific fields. He studied at Uppsala University, where he developed a deep interest in mathematics, physics, and engineering. After completing his education, he traveled across Europe, immersing himself in the scientific communities of England, Holland, France, and Germany. During this period, he published numerous works on topics ranging from metallurgy to anatomy. One of his notable achievements was his role as an assessor for the Swedish Board of Mines, where he applied his engineering expertise to improve mining operations in Sweden. He also designed innovative machines, including early concepts for a submarine and an airplane, demonstrating his forward-thinking approach to technology. His scientific writings, such as “Principia Rerum Naturalium” (1734), showcased his attempt to explain the natural world through a combination of empirical observation and philosophical reasoning, reflecting his belief in an underlying order to the universe.

Swedenborg’s scientific achievements were not limited to engineering and physics; he also made pioneering contributions to anatomy and physiology. His studies of the human brain were remarkably advanced for his time, and he is credited with early insights into the localization of brain functions. In his work “Oeconomia Regni Animalis” (1740-1741), he explored the relationship between the body and soul, foreshadowing his later spiritual focus. He proposed that the soul interacts with the body through specific physiological structures, a concept that bridged his scientific and metaphysical interests. His anatomical research earned him recognition among his contemporaries, and he was offered prestigious academic positions, which he declined to pursue independent study and writing.

Around 1743-1745, Swedenborg experienced a series of spiritual crises and visions that marked a turning point in his life. He described these experiences as direct communications with the spiritual world, including encounters with angels and spirits. He believed that God had called him to reveal new truths about the nature of heaven, hell, and the human soul. Abandoning his scientific pursuits, Swedenborg dedicated the remainder of his life to writing theological works based on these revelations. His transition from scientist to mystic was met with skepticism by some, but his sincerity and the depth of his writings garnered a dedicated following. He claimed that his visions allowed him to explore the afterlife and understand the spiritual laws governing existence, which he documented in exhaustive detail.

Swedenborg’s theological writings form the cornerstone of his legacy. He published numerous volumes, the most prominent of which include “Arcana Coelestia” (1749-1756), “Heaven and Hell” (1758), “Divine Love and Wisdom” (1763), and “True Christian Religion” (1771). In these works, he presented a unique interpretation of Christianity that emphasized the internal, spiritual meaning of the Bible over literal interpretations. He argued that the Scriptures contained hidden truths accessible only through spiritual insight, a concept central to his doctrine of correspondences. This doctrine posited that every element of the natural world corresponds to a spiritual reality, creating a direct link between the material and divine realms. For example, he suggested that light in the physical world corresponds to divine truth in the spiritual world, and heat to divine love.

One of Swedenborg’s most influential ideas was his description of the afterlife. In “Heaven and Hell,” he detailed a complex structure of the spiritual world, divided into layers of heaven and hell based on individuals’ inner states rather than external judgments. He taught that people gravitate to the spiritual environment that matches their true character after death, emphasizing personal responsibility for one’s spiritual destiny. Heaven, according to Swedenborg, is not a static place of reward but a dynamic state of growth in love and wisdom, while hell is a condition of self-imposed suffering resulting from selfish desires. His rejection of traditional doctrines like eternal damnation and predestination challenged orthodox Christian theology and offered a more compassionate view of divine justice.

Swedenborg also introduced the concept of the “New Church,” which he believed would emerge as a result of his revelations. He saw this church not as a physical institution but as a spiritual movement grounded in the worship of Jesus Christ as the sole divine being, rejecting the traditional Trinitarian view of separate divine persons. His teachings emphasized the importance of living a life of charity and usefulness, asserting that true faith manifests through good works. This focus on practical spirituality resonated with many who felt disillusioned by the formalism of established churches, leading to the eventual formation of the New Church or Swedenborgian congregations after his death.

Swedenborg’s influence extended beyond theology into literature and philosophy. His ideas about the spiritual world and the interconnectedness of all things inspired Romantic poets and thinkers, including William Blake, who incorporated Swedenborgian themes into his poetry and art, though he later critiqued some aspects of Swedenborg’s teachings. Ralph Waldo Emerson, the American transcendentalist, also admired Swedenborg, calling him a “colossal soul” and drawing on his ideas about the unity of nature and spirit. Swedenborg’s emphasis on individual spiritual experience and inner transformation aligned with the transcendentalist movement’s focus on personal intuition and connection to the divine.

In addition to his intellectual contributions, Swedenborg’s personal life reflected his commitment to his beliefs. He lived modestly, never marrying, and devoted his wealth to publishing his works, often distributing them at his own expense. He wrote primarily in Latin to reach an international scholarly audience, and his texts were later translated into multiple languages, ensuring their accessibility. Despite facing criticism and accusations of heresy from some religious authorities, Swedenborg remained steadfast in his mission, asserting that his writings were divinely inspired and intended to benefit humanity. His calm demeanor and lack of interest in personal fame further underscored his sincerity.

Swedenborg’s achievements also include his role as a cultural bridge between the Enlightenment and Romanticism. His early scientific work embodied the Enlightenment ideals of reason and empirical inquiry, while his later mystical writings anticipated Romanticism’s fascination with the unseen and the infinite. This duality makes Swedenborg a unique figure in intellectual history, embodying both the rational and the visionary. His concept of correspondences, for instance, influenced later thinkers in fields as diverse as psychology and art, with figures like Carl Jung drawing parallels between Swedenborg’s ideas and the concept of archetypes.

Swedenborg’s legacy endures through the New Church, which continues to promote his teachings, as well as through academic interest in his contributions to science, theology, and philosophy. His life demonstrates the potential for profound personal transformation, as he moved from a respected scientist to a mystic whose visions reshaped religious thought. His insistence on the unity of love and wisdom as the foundation of spiritual life remains a powerful message, encouraging individuals to seek deeper meaning in their actions and beliefs. Through his extensive writings, Swedenborg provided a roadmap for understanding the relationship between the human and the divine, a pursuit that continues to inspire spiritual seekers across the globe.

Magnum Opus of Emanuel Swedenborg

Emanuel Swedenborg’s magnum opus is widely considered to be “Arcana Coelestia” (Heavenly Secrets), published in eight volumes between 1749 and 1756. Written in Latin, this monumental work serves as the foundation of his theological system and encapsulates his spiritual revelations and biblical exegesis. Spanning thousands of pages, “Arcana Coelestia” is both a detailed commentary on the books of Genesis and Exodus and a comprehensive exploration of the spiritual world, human nature, and divine truth. Swedenborg claimed that the work was inspired by direct communication with angels and spirits, a claim that shapes its unique blend of scriptural interpretation and mystical insight. It remains one of the most significant texts in the history of Christian mysticism and the primary source for understanding Swedenborg’s doctrine of correspondences and his vision of the afterlife.

The central purpose of “Arcana Coelestia” is to uncover the hidden, spiritual meanings within the Bible, which Swedenborg believed had been obscured by literal interpretations. He argued that every verse, word, and even number in the Scriptures contains an internal sense that corresponds to spiritual realities. This doctrine of correspondences is the backbone of the work, positing that the natural world is a reflection of the spiritual world, with every physical object or event symbolizing a deeper divine truth. For instance, Swedenborg interprets the creation story in Genesis not as a literal account of the world’s origin but as an allegory for the spiritual regeneration of the human soul. Light represents divine truth, darkness signifies ignorance, and the separation of waters symbolizes the distinction between spiritual and natural understanding.

Swedenborg’s method in “Arcana Coelestia” involves a verse-by-verse analysis of Genesis and Exodus, accompanied by lengthy explanations of their spiritual significance. Each chapter of the biblical text is followed by detailed expositions of related spiritual topics, such as the nature of heaven, hell, angels, and the human mind. He describes heaven as a realm of infinite variety, organized into communities based on shared loves and interests, where individuals continue to grow in wisdom and happiness. Hell, conversely, is portrayed as a state of misery chosen by those who reject divine love and truth, not as a place of external punishment. These descriptions are interspersed with accounts of Swedenborg’s own spiritual experiences, during which he claimed to have conversed with spirits and angels who revealed the structure and laws of the afterlife.

One of the most innovative aspects of “Arcana Coelestia” is its emphasis on the human journey of regeneration, or spiritual rebirth. Swedenborg teaches that every individual must undergo a process of inner transformation to align their will with divine love and their understanding with divine wisdom. This process involves combating selfish desires and false beliefs through self-examination and reliance on divine guidance. He likens this journey to the biblical narrative of the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt, interpreting their enslavement as a symbol of bondage to material desires and their liberation as the soul’s freedom in spiritual truth. This focus on personal spiritual development distinguishes Swedenborg’s theology from traditional Christian doctrines that emphasize external salvation through faith alone.

Swedenborg also uses “Arcana Coelestia” to introduce his concept of the “Ancient Church,” a hypothetical early form of spirituality that he believed existed before the corruption of religious truth. He asserts that the earliest humans possessed a direct connection to the divine, understanding spiritual truths intuitively through correspondences. Over time, this knowledge was lost, leading to the need for divine revelation through the Scriptures and, ultimately, through Swedenborg’s own writings. This historical framework underpins his mission to restore true spiritual understanding, which he saw as the purpose of his revelations. The work thus serves as both a historical narrative of humanity’s spiritual decline and a guide for its restoration.

The scale and depth of “Arcana Coelestia” make it a challenging yet profoundly influential text. Its detailed exploration of the spiritual world provided a new lens through which to view religious texts, inspiring followers to seek deeper meanings in their faith. The work’s emphasis on the interconnectedness of all things—natural and spiritual—resonated with later philosophical and literary movements, particularly Romanticism, which valued the unity of nature and spirit. Swedenborg’s vivid descriptions of heavenly and hellish states also offered a novel perspective on the afterlife, moving away from medieval imagery of physical reward and punishment toward a psychological and moral understanding of spiritual destiny.

Despite its significance, “Arcana Coelestia” was not widely read during Swedenborg’s lifetime, partly due to its dense style and Latin composition. Swedenborg published the work anonymously at his own expense, reflecting his commitment to sharing his revelations without seeking personal recognition. Over time, however, translations into English and other languages made the text more accessible, and it became the foundational document for the New Church, which formalized Swedenborg’s teachings into a religious movement. The work’s influence can also be seen in the writings of figures like William Blake, who engaged with Swedenborg’s ideas about the spiritual significance of the natural world, though Blake later diverged from some of Swedenborg’s conclusions.

In addition to its theological content, “Arcana Coelestia” reflects Swedenborg’s earlier scientific background through its systematic approach and attention to detail. His descriptions of spiritual phenomena are presented with the precision of a scientist cataloging natural observations, lending a unique credibility to his mystical claims. This blend of rational structure and visionary content is a hallmark of the work, embodying Swedenborg’s dual identity as a scientist and mystic. His attempt to harmonize reason and revelation in “Arcana Coelestia” mirrors his broader goal of uniting the material and spiritual dimensions of existence, a theme that permeates all his writings.

The enduring value of “Arcana Coelestia” lies in its comprehensive vision of reality as a unified whole, where the divine permeates every aspect of life. It challenges readers to look beyond surface appearances and seek the spiritual truths underlying their experiences. For Swedenborg, the Bible was not merely a historical document but a living guide to divine wisdom, accessible to those who approach it with an open heart and mind. Through this magnum opus, he sought to awaken humanity to its spiritual potential, offering a roadmap for personal and collective transformation that remains relevant to spiritual seekers today.

Interesting Facts About Emanuel Swedenborg

Emanuel Swedenborg’s life is filled with fascinating details that highlight his multifaceted genius and unconventional path. While he is best known for his theological writings, many aspects of his life and work remain lesser-known, offering a richer understanding of his character and contributions. Below are several intriguing facts about Swedenborg that illuminate his diverse talents, personal quirks, and the impact of his ideas across various fields.

First, Swedenborg was a prodigious inventor and engineer long before his spiritual awakening. In his early career, he designed remarkable machines and concepts that were ahead of his time. These include a prototype for a submarine, a flying machine resembling a glider, and a steam engine. Although many of these designs were theoretical and not built during his lifetime, they demonstrated his innovative thinking and grasp of mechanical principles. His engineering skills also led to practical contributions, such as improvements to Sweden’s mining industry during his tenure at the Board of Mines, where he developed methods to enhance efficiency and safety.

Another surprising fact is Swedenborg’s linguistic prowess. He was fluent in multiple languages, including Latin, Greek, Hebrew, and several modern European tongues. This linguistic ability was crucial to his work, as he wrote his theological texts in Latin to reach a scholarly international audience. His proficiency in ancient languages also aided his biblical exegesis, allowing him to analyze the Scriptures in their original forms. Swedenborg’s dedication to precision in language extended to his translations and interpretations, ensuring that his spiritual insights were grounded in textual accuracy.

Swedenborg’s spiritual experiences included alleged psychic abilities that gained attention during his lifetime. One well-documented incident occurred in 1759, when he reportedly described a fire in Stockholm while he was 300 miles away in Gothenburg. According to contemporary accounts, he provided accurate details of the fire’s progression and its eventual containment, which were later confirmed. This event, known as the “Stockholm Fire Incident,” fueled speculation about his supernatural powers, though Swedenborg himself attributed such experiences to his communication with the spiritual world rather than personal ability. While skeptics questioned the veracity of these claims, the story contributed to his reputation as a mystic.

Despite his profound spiritual focus, Swedenborg maintained a disciplined and frugal lifestyle. He never married, believing that celibacy allowed him to devote himself fully to his divine mission. He lived simply in a modest home in Stockholm, surrounded by books and manuscripts, and often paid for the publication of his works out of his own pocket. His lack of interest in wealth or fame was evident in his decision to publish many of his theological texts anonymously, prioritizing the dissemination of his ideas over personal recognition. This humility stood in contrast to the boldness of his claims about spiritual revelation.

Swedenborg’s influence on psychology is another intriguing aspect of his legacy. His detailed explorations of the human mind and soul in works like “Arcana Coelestia” anticipated later developments in psychological theory. He discussed concepts resembling the unconscious mind, describing how hidden desires and thoughts shape behavior and spiritual states. Carl Jung, the founder of analytical psychology, acknowledged Swedenborg’s impact, noting parallels between his descriptions of spiritual archetypes and Jung’s own theories. This connection highlights Swedenborg’s relevance beyond theology, positioning him as a precursor to modern psychological thought.

Finally, Swedenborg’s death in 1772 in London was marked by a quiet dignity that mirrored his life. He had moved to London in his later years, where he continued writing and engaging with a small circle of followers. On his deathbed, he reportedly affirmed the truth of his spiritual experiences when asked if he wished to retract any of his claims, responding with unwavering conviction. His body was initially buried in London, but in 1908, at the request of the Swedish government, his remains were repatriated to Uppsala Cathedral, a testament to his enduring significance in Swedish cultural and intellectual history.

These facts reveal the complexity of Emanuel Swedenborg as a figure who defied easy categorization. His blend of scientific innovation, linguistic mastery, spiritual vision, and personal humility creates a portrait of a man driven by an insatiable quest for truth, whether in the natural or spiritual realm. His life story continues to captivate scholars and spiritual seekers alike, offering insights into the possibilities of human potential when guided by curiosity and faith.

Daily Affirmations that Embody Emanuel Swedenborg Ideas

These daily affirmations are inspired by Emanuel Swedenborg’s teachings on divine love, wisdom, spiritual growth, and the connection between the natural and spiritual worlds. They are designed to encourage reflection and alignment with his core principles.

1. I start each day seeking the divine love that guides my heart.
2. I trust in the unseen order that shapes my life for the better.
3. My actions today reflect the spiritual truth within me.
4. I embrace peace by surrendering to divine providence.
5. I strive to balance wisdom and love in all my decisions.
6. I see the divine correspondence in every moment of my day.
7. My soul grows stronger through acts of kindness and charity.
8. I am open to the spiritual insights that surround me.
9. I live with purpose, knowing I am part of a greater whole.
10. I release selfish desires to align with divine goodness.
11. My faith in the eternal sustains me through challenges.
12. I seek to understand the deeper meaning behind my experiences.
13. I am a vessel for divine light in the world today.
14. I walk my path with trust in the spiritual laws of creation.
15. My heart is at peace, connected to the source of all love.

Final Word on Emanuel Swedenborg

Emanuel Swedenborg stands as a towering figure whose life and work transcend conventional boundaries of science, theology, and mysticism. His journey from a respected scientist to a visionary mystic reflects a profound commitment to understanding the deepest truths of existence. Through his extensive writings, particularly “Arcana Coelestia,” he offered a unique perspective on the relationship between the natural and spiritual worlds, emphasizing the transformative power of divine love and wisdom. His teachings continue to resonate, inspiring the New Church and influencing thinkers across disciplines. Swedenborg’s legacy is one of relentless inquiry and spiritual dedication, challenging us to look beyond the material and seek the divine in all aspects of life. His vision of a universe governed by correspondences and personal regeneration remains a source of inspiration, inviting each of us to embark on our own journey of inner discovery and connection to the eternal.