543. XXXIX. HELL OR THE SOCIETY OF UNHAPPY SOULS
That society is called infernal, diabolical, unhappy which is in opposite loves, that is, in which souls live in hatred to God and their companions. It must certainly exist, if there is to be every variety between the two opposites, and indeed, actually, nothing being possible in the spiritual idea of the soul which does not exist actually; for the soul is pure intelligence and is not beset by any shades of ignorance. Moreover, intermediates cannot exist without their opposites, it being from opposites that relations are known as to their nature. Hence the devil, an infernal society, exists actually, that is, a society burning with the love of scattering the heavenly society. Nor without such an evil society would the blessed be kindled with any zeal and ardor, or souls be ardent in the protection of the church, and thus feel themselves happier from opposites.
