Alexandr Korol

which symbolizes constancy and glory. In the Book of Revelation the symbolic reality is likewise shown through images having the meaning of symbols, when it speaks of the redeemed receiving the morning star, of ‘a white stone with a secret name written on it,’ and of the fountain of living water. Those entering heaven become pillars in the temple of God.” Well, that is, it turns out that all the people who enter the world of heaven are arranged across this entire heavenly hierarchy, and in them thus God is manifested. And that they are all precisely pure, polished, redeemed. Then it also says: “It seems quite legitimate to regard these images as symbols of spiritual reality. The same applies to the abundance of images connected with the dimensions, layout, and decorations in the description of the New Jerusalem, creating an atmosphere of splendor in contrast to the absolute simplicity expressed in the opening verses of the Bible.” So, what else? Images. Another section: “Images of mystery and strangeness.” “Although they are not among the main images in the depiction of heaven, beings that have never existed in human imagination are present in the visions of Ezekiel and in Revelation. In Ezekiel’s vision, living creatures are depicted with four faces, four wings, and feet like those of a calf. These beings move back and forth, and among them walks something like burning lamps. In addition, next to them moves the heavenly chariot with sparkling wheels, ‘their rims full of eyes’; the description becomes even more enigmatic when we read that ‘the Spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels.’ Extremely unusual too are the scenes in the Book of Revelation, which show beings ‘with six wings and eyes before and behind.’ All this creates an impression that reinforces the idea of the fundamental difference between heaven and earth and strengthens the sense of mystery surrounding heaven. In the end, it is about the incomprehensible: ‘Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man, what God has prepared for those who love Him.’”

Another section: “The transformation of earthly realities of fallen man. An important place in the biblical symbolism of heaven is taken by the theme of the transformation of the earthly realities. The first part of the equation consists in the removal or eradication of the conditions of life of fallen man. There will be no hunger, nor thirst, nor scorching heat. God will wipe away every tear. Death, mourning, and sickness will disappear, for the former things have passed away.