The Gist of Swedenborg 1920 by Julian K. Smyth is a comprehensive guide to the spiritual teachings of Emanuel Swedenborg, a Swedish theologian, scientist, and philosopher. The book provides a detailed analysis of Swedenborg's philosophy, which centers on the idea that the spiritual world is interconnected with the physical world and that the two are intimately linked. Smyth explores Swedenborg's ideas on various topics, including the nature of God, the afterlife, the soul, and the purpose of human existence. He also discusses Swedenborg's views on the Bible and the role of religion in society. The book is written in a clear and accessible style, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in Swedenborg's teachings or spiritual philosophy in general. Smyth's analysis is based on a deep understanding of Swedenborg's works, making this book an authoritative and insightful guide to his ideas. Overall, The Gist of Swedenborg 1920 is a valuable resource for anyone looking to explore the spiritual teachings of Emanuel Swedenborg and gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of the physical and spiritual worlds.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
From Hymnary dot org: A graduate of Urbana University, Urbana, Ohio, Smyth was ordained January 5, 1879.
He served as pastor of the Portland New Church Society (1877–82), the Roxbury Society (1882–98), and the New York Society (1898–1921).
He was president of the New Church New York Association (1907–21), and of the General Convention (1911–21).
He was member of the American New-Church Sunday School Association committee that compiled and edited the Hosanna, the New Jerusalem Committee of Worship that compiled and edited the Magnificat in 1910, and—with James Reed—on the General Convention of the New Jerusalem Committee of Worship that established the 1912 Book of Worship.
Kennedy also founded the Kennedy House for the education of the underprivileged in New York City.
A nice quick read to get an idea of the concepts of this theologian. There is a great variety of small sections presenting the different ideas from the many books he wrote. Some of these ideas are quite unique and possibly considered to be mystical by some, but it is nice to hear them outside of the genre of fantasy.
An interesting introduction to Swedenborg's beliefs. If more Christians subscribed to his simple teachings of love and duty, perhaps they would garner greater respect.
Unremarkable in any way. Just reads like most Christian philosophical commentaries about Christianity and what it means. Other than a few advancements, or revelations Swedenborg had, such as dead children becoming angels, there wasn't enough here to prompt me to dig into his other works, since this was a cursory look at all of them, and for that I'm grateful since I can now skip them or put them off. Itch = scratched.