Draft:Swedenborg Foundation

• Comment: Unreferenced -Samoht27 (talk) 15:39, 20 February 2025 (UTC)

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Swedenborg Foundation The Swedenborg Foundation is an independent, nonprofit organization based in the United States, dedicated to publishing and promoting engagement with the theological teachings of Emanuel Swedenborg (1688–1772), an 18th-century scientist, philosopher, and theologian. Established in 1849, the foundation has a longstanding mission to make Swedenborg's spiritual writings accessible to contemporary audiences and to foster deeper engagement with his teachings on faith, spirituality, and the nature of human experience.

Mission and Core Activities The Swedenborg Foundation seeks to bridge the gap between Swedenborg's 18th-century writings and modern readers, emphasizing clarity, accessibility, and practical application of his ideas. Its activities include: The New Century Edition (NCE): This is a landmark initiative that began in 1995, aiming to produce modern, accurate English translations of Swedenborg's theological works. These translations are crafted from the original Latin manuscripts, with detailed introductions and annotations to provide historical and theological context. Off The Left Eye: Through its video and podcast production platform, Off The Left Eye, the foundation offers a range of multimedia content that explores Swedenborgian concepts. Since its launch in 2010, the channel has grown to include weekly live streams, Q&A sessions, and thematic video series, with an active and engaged online audience. Publishing Program: In addition to the NCE, the Swedenborg Foundation publishes introductory and interpretive works about Swedenborg’s life and ideas, including books aimed at new readers and scholars alike. Free Resources: The foundation provides free e-books, audiobooks, and other downloadable materials to make Swedenborg’s writings accessible to people across the globe.

Historical Background The Swedenborg Foundation was incorporated in 1849 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, during a period when Swedenborgian thought was gaining recognition in the United States and Europe. Initially focused on publishing Swedenborg’s writings in English, the organization became a key player in spreading his spiritual ideas. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the foundation expanded its role to include hosting lectures, producing educational pamphlets, and collaborating with Swedenborgian churches and societies. In the mid-20th century, the foundation transitioned into its current role as a hub for publishing and educational outreach. The introduction of the New Century Edition in 1995 marked a significant modernization of the foundation’s work, ensuring that Swedenborg’s writings could resonate with new generations.

Emanuel Swedenborg’s Legacy Emanuel Swedenborg was a Swedish polymath whose later life was devoted to exploring theological and spiritual questions. He authored a series of profound works, including Heaven and Hell (1758) and Divine Love and Wisdom (1763), which describe his visions of the afterlife and his insights into the nature of God and humanity. Swedenborg’s ideas have influenced figures such as William Blake, Helen Keller, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Carl Jung. The foundation has been instrumental in preserving and disseminating these works, making them available to scholars, religious seekers, and the general public.

Community Engagement and Outreach In recent decades, the Swedenborg Foundation has broadened its scope to connect with a global audience through digital platforms. The foundation’s flagship YouTube channel, Off The Left Eye, was launched in 2010 and has since garnered millions views and over half a million subscribers across platforms. The channel explores topics such as the afterlife, spiritual growth, and the practical application of Swedenborgian teachings in daily life. In addition to its online presence, the foundation engages with audiences through: Social Media: Active on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to share inspirational content and engage in dialogue about Swedenborg’s teachings. Events and Conferences: Hosting workshops, virtual gatherings, and special events that provide deeper insights into Swedenborgian spirituality.

Support and Governance As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Swedenborg Foundation relies on donations and grants to sustain its activities. Its financial and operational transparency reflects its commitment to maintaining the trust of its supporters and collaborators. The foundation is governed by a Board of Directors, whose members bring expertise in theology, publishing, education, and nonprofit management. The organization's headquarters are located in Royersford, Pennsylvania.

Legacy and Continuing Mission For over 175 years, the Swedenborg Foundation has played a pivotal role in preserving and sharing the spiritual philosophy of Emanuel Swedenborg. By embracing modern tools and technologies, the foundation ensures that Swedenborg's teachings remain relevant in addressing the spiritual and existential questions of contemporary life. Through its publishing efforts, digital media outreach, and commitment to accessibility, the Swedenborg Foundation continues to inspire individuals worldwide to explore the transformative power of Swedenborg’s insights.

Links: https://swedenborg.com/emanuel-swedenborg/ https://swedenborg.com/about-us/ https://swedenborg.com/about-us/board-and-staff/ https://swedenborg.com/new-century-edition/ https://swedenborg.com/about-us/submissions/ https://swedenborg.com/otle/about/ https://www.youtube.com/@offTheLeftEye