They know
also that what they know is as nothing compared to what they do not
know; and they say that knowing, acknowledging, and perceiving this
is the first step towards wisdom. These angels have no clothing,
because nakedness corresponds to innocence.{1}
{Footnote 1} All in the inmost heaven are innocences (n. 154,
2736, 3887). Therefore they appear to others like children (n.
154). They are also naked (n. 165, 8375, 9960). Nakedness
belongs to innocence (n. 165, 8375). Spirits have a custom of
exhibiting innocence by laying aside their garments and
presenting themselves naked (n. 165, 8375, 9960).
281. I have talked much with angels about innocence, and have been
told that innocence is the being [esse] of all good, and that good is
therefore so far good as it has innocence in it, consequently that
wisdom is so far wisdom as it partakes of innocence; and the same is
true of love, charity, and faith;{1} and therefore no one can enter
heaven unless he possesses innocence; and this the Lord teaches when
He says:
Suffer little children to come unto Me, and forbid them
not; for of such is the kingdom of the heavens.
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