Emanuel Swedberg was born in Stockholm, Sweden, to Jesper Swedberg, a Lutheran clergyman who would later become Bishop of Skara, and Sara Behm. His father's religious influence and intellectual environment played a significant role in shaping Emanuel's early life and fostering his interest in theological and philosophical matters.

Swedenborg attended Uppsala University, where he studied a wide range of subjects including classical languages, mathematics, and natural sciences. This period laid the foundation for his later scientific pursuits and showcased his diverse intellectual abilities. He demonstrated a particular aptitude for mathematics and natural philosophy, which would later inform his engineering projects and scientific theories.

King Charles XII appointed Swedenborg as Assessor Extraordinary at the Swedish Board of Mines. While this position provided some administrative duties, it also allowed him to travel extensively throughout Sweden and Europe, studying mining practices and engaging in scientific investigations. This role exposed him to practical applications of science and fostered his inventive spirit.

Emanuel Swedberg was ennobled by Queen Ulrika Eleonora of Sweden, and his family name was changed to Swedenborg. Nobilitation was often awarded to individuals for service to the crown in scientific and technological fields. This recognition elevated his social standing and further legitimized his scientific endeavors.

Swedenborg published 'Opera philosophica et mineralia' (Philosophical and Mineral Works), a three-volume work that demonstrated his deep knowledge of mining, metallurgy, and cosmology. This work included 'Principia rerum naturalium,' where he presented a nebular hypothesis of planetary formation predating Kant and Laplace. This publication solidified his reputation as a leading scientific thinker of his time.

Swedenborg dedicated himself to the study of anatomy and physiology, seeking to understand the connection between the soul and the body. He published 'Oeconomia Regni Animalis' (The Economy of the Animal Kingdom) in 1740-1741, where he described the function of the circulatory system and explored the relationship between mind and matter. His anatomical investigations were highly advanced for his time and demonstrated his commitment to understanding the natural world.

During this period, Swedenborg experienced a profound spiritual crisis that led to intense dreams and visions. He documented these experiences in his 'Journal of Dreams,' which provides insight into his developing spiritual beliefs and his growing conviction that he was being called to a higher purpose. These experiences marked a turning point in his life, shifting his focus from scientific inquiry to spiritual revelation.

Swedenborg published 'Arcana Caelestia,' a multi-volume commentary on the books of Genesis and Exodus. In this work, he presented his theological interpretations of the Bible, claiming to have received divine revelations and to be able to converse with angels and spirits. This publication marked the beginning of his career as a theologian and spiritual writer, attracting both followers and critics.

Swedenborg published 'Heaven and Hell' (De Caelo et Ejus Mirabilibus et de Inferno, ex Auditis et Visis), one of his most popular and influential works. In this book, he described his experiences in the spiritual world, providing detailed accounts of heaven, hell, and the afterlife. The book resonated with many readers and helped to spread his theological ideas throughout Europe and beyond.

Emanuel Swedenborg died in London, England, at the age of 84. He had spent his later years in London, writing and publishing his theological works and attracting a small but devoted following. His death marked the end of a life dedicated to both scientific inquiry and spiritual exploration, leaving behind a complex and influential legacy.