Kingdom of Heaven. "Heaven is not a locality, but a state in which Mind and body are harmonious and immortal, because sin is destroyed, and man is found having no righteousness of his own, and no Mind but God." (S. & H.) The apprehension and realization of this state is symbolized in the marriage of the parable. Its attainment is through wise action, not through the death of the body. We go forth to meet the bridegroom, who comes to meet us, here and now.
Ten Virgins. The thoughts, or pure purposes put forth after Truth. They suggest the Ten Commandments, types of the perfect law of God, which, fulfilled, bring out harmony. The first five commandments define man's duty and relation to God, and include all the wisdom of the other five. Outwardly, these virgins appear equally worthy, all bearing lamps, and all, apparently, with one purpose—to meet the bridegroom. Error appears in the garb of Truth.
Bridegroom. "Spiritual understanding; the pure consciousness that God, the Divine Principle, creates man as His own idea, and is the only creative power." (S. & H.) This is the true conception of God, ever seeking acceptance among men.
