AC 10185 - Leaves, Blossoms, Fruit

AC 10185 [2-3]

. . . "leaves" in the Word signify the truths of faith),
for . . . by their means is drawn up the living power
whereby good is formed.

The blossoming before the fruit
corresponds to the state of that age with man
when the conjugial inclination
enters minds and gladdens them,
thus when truth is being conjoined with good.
But the fruit corresponds to the good itself,
which, insofar as it ripens like fruit,
puts itself forth into works.
From this it is that "fruits" in the Word
signify the works of charity;
and the blossoming before the fruit
is compared to
the voice and joy of the bride and bridegroom;
and so in all other things.