Word: empyrion
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...structure of the "Paradiso" follows closely the Ptolemaic system of astronomy. There are seven heavens: the first seven are represented by the "seven planets of Ptolemy"; the eighth heaven by the fixed stars or milky way; the ninth heaven by a crystalline sphere; and the tenth by the Empyrion, which is the furthest from earth. In this structural system, Dante shows that the further we are from God the less capable we are of entering into His Spirit, and that as the Empyrion is the centre of the heavens, yet embracing them all so God is both centre and circumference...
...looks into Beatrice's eyes, when he feels an inward transformation and understanding. Beatrice is the embodiment of theology; and although man cannot see absolute Truth itself, he may see it translated in theologic form. Dante continues climbing up the golden ladder of the "Paradiso" until he reaches the Empyrion where Beatrice's place is taken by St. Bernard, the mystic. Here Dante has no more need of theology's aid; here he sees the final vision of God--all operations of the universe working through the power of divine love; here the teaching of "Paradiso" is consummated: "Would...
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