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Cover of Earths In Our Solar System Which Are Called Planets, and Earths In The Starry Heaven Their Inhabitants, And The Spirits And Angels There

Earths In Our Solar System Which Are Called Planets, and Earths In The Starry Heaven Their Inhabitants, And The Spirits And Angels There

Written by Emanuel Swedenborg

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About this book

"Earths In Our Solar System Which Are Called Planets, and Earths In The Starry Heaven" by Emanuel Swedenborg is a scientific publication that likely originated in the late 19th century. The work explores the existence of other worlds beyond Earth, detailing not only the characteristics of these planets, such as Mercury and Jupiter but also the nature of their inhabitants and their spiritual interactions. The book delves into Swedenborg’s mystical experiences and conversations with both spirits and angels concerning the divine and the structure of the universe. The opening of the book reveals Swedenborg's claims of having interacted with spirits from various celestial bodies. He recounts his experiences of learning about the inhabitants of these other worlds, their customs, and their divine worship practices based on dialogue with spirits he encountered. He posits that it is rational to believe in the existence of multiple inhabited worlds within the universe, explaining the scientific and spiritual mechanisms that connect them. This section sets the foundation for Swedenborg's detailed explorations of individual planets and their ethereal qualities; it piques the curiosity of readers interested in metaphysical discussions about spirituality and the nature of creation.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Earths In Our Solar System Which Are Called Planets, and Earths In The Starry Heaven Their Inhabitants, And The Spirits And Angels There, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 12 hours
  • advanced
  • speculative
  • spiritual
  • revelatory

Emanuel Swedenborg's "Earths In Our Solar System..." presents a detailed account of his spiritual journeys to other planets within our solar system and beyond, where he converses with their inhabitants, spirits, and angels. Through these celestial encounters, Swedenborg reveals a universal divine order, asserting that human life, in varying forms, exists throughout the cosmos and that all beings are connected to the spiritual world. The book explores the diverse spiritual states and forms of worship practiced by these extraterrestrial societies, ultimately reinforcing Swedenborg's core theological premise that God's love and wisdom pervade all creation. It serves as an extension of his broader theological system, offering a unique spiritual cosmology.

That there are earths in the starry heaven, and that there are men upon them, and spirits and angels from them, is a truth heretofore unknown, but now revealed for the sake of the spiritual good of the human race.

Key themes

Universal Divine Order
This theme posits that God's creation is vast and interconnected, extending beyond Earth to countless other inhabited worlds, all governed by the same divine laws of love and wisdom. Each planet, with its unique inhabitants and customs, reflects a particular aspect of this universal order and contributes to the grand design of heaven.
The Nature of Human Life and Spirituality Across the Cosmos
Swedenborg argues that human life, in various forms, is universal and that all sentient beings are created in the divine image, possessing a spiritual essence. The book explores how different environments and cultures shape the spiritual development and expressions of faith among these diverse 'humans,' highlighting commonalities and differences in their pursuit of divine truth.
Revelation and Spiritual Experience
The entire book is presented as a direct revelation to Swedenborg, emphasizing the possibility and validity of direct spiritual experience as a source of knowledge about the divine and the cosmos. It highlights the role of a chosen individual in mediating profound spiritual truths to humanity.

Worth discussing

How does Swedenborg's concept of extraterrestrial life differ from modern scientific or science fiction perspectives?

Chapter-by-chapter breakdowns, character arcs and the full thematic analysis come with a free account.

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