Emanuel Swedenborg (1688-1772) was a Swedish scientist, philosopher, and mystic who spent the first half of his life as a respected scientific thinker before experiencing visions that led him to produce voluminous theological writings about the afterlife, heaven, hell, and the spiritual meaning of the Bible.

What Did Swedenborg See?

Beginning in 1745, Swedenborg claimed to experience daily visions of the spiritual world. He described heaven and hell in exhaustive detail, including conversations with angels, spirits, and historical figures. His accounts portrayed the afterlife as a continuation of spiritual development rather than a static state of reward or punishment.

What Are Swedenborg's Major Works?

Heaven and Hell (1758) is his most widely read work, describing the afterlife based on his visions. Divine Love and Wisdom explores the nature of God. The True Christian Religion presents his theological system. He published over 18 theological works in the last 28 years of his life.

How Did Swedenborg Influence Later Thinkers?

William Blake, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Charles Baudelaire, and Helen Keller were all influenced by Swedenborg. The Swedenborgian Church (Church of the New Jerusalem) was founded on his teachings. His ideas about correspondences between the natural and spiritual worlds influenced the Symbolist movement.

What Is Swedenborg's Legacy?

Swedenborg bridges the scientific and mystical traditions. His detailed, rational approach to visionary experience anticipated aspects of transpersonal psychology. Speak with Swedenborg on HoloDream about the spiritual world, correspondences, and what awaits beyond the veil.