Topical Encyclopedia In the Holy Scriptures, the concept of light, particularly in its brightness, is a profound symbol that permeates both the Old and New Testaments. Light is often associated with the presence and glory of God, the revelation of truth, and the guidance provided by divine wisdom.Divine Presence and Glory The brightness of light is frequently used to describe the glory and majesty of God. In the Old Testament, the manifestation of God's presence is often accompanied by a radiant light. For instance, when Moses descended from Mount Sinai after speaking with God, his face shone with a bright light, reflecting the divine glory he had encountered (Exodus 34:29-30). This brightness signifies the holiness and purity of God, who is described as dwelling in "unapproachable light" (1 Timothy 6:16). The prophet Ezekiel also witnessed a vision of God's glory, which he described as "the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD" with a brightness that surrounded it (Ezekiel 1:28). This imagery underscores the transcendent and awe-inspiring nature of God's presence. Revelation and Truth In the New Testament, light is closely associated with the revelation of truth through Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself declared, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life" (John 8:12). Here, the brightness of light symbolizes the clarity and truth that Jesus brings into a world darkened by sin and ignorance. The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this theme, explaining that God "made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ" (2 Corinthians 4:6). This passage highlights the transformative power of divine light, which illuminates the hearts and minds of believers, enabling them to perceive and embrace the truth of the Gospel. Guidance and Wisdom The brightness of light also serves as a metaphor for guidance and wisdom. The psalmist declares, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105), emphasizing the role of God's Word in providing direction and understanding. The light of Scripture dispels the darkness of confusion and error, leading believers in the way of righteousness. In the book of Proverbs, wisdom is personified as a bright light that guides the righteous: "The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining brighter and brighter until midday" (Proverbs 4:18). This imagery conveys the progressive nature of spiritual growth and enlightenment as one walks in obedience to God's commands. Eschatological Fulfillment The theme of light reaches its eschatological fulfillment in the book of Revelation, where the New Jerusalem is described as having "the glory of God, its radiance like a most precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal" (Revelation 21:11). In this eternal city, there is no need for the sun or moon, for "the glory of God illuminates it, and the Lamb is its lamp" (Revelation 21:23). The brightness of divine light will eternally dispel all darkness, symbolizing the ultimate victory of God's kingdom. Throughout Scripture, the brightness of light serves as a powerful symbol of God's presence, truth, guidance, and ultimate triumph. It calls believers to walk in the light, reflecting the glory of God in their lives and bearing witness to the transformative power of the Gospel. Torrey's Topical Textbook Job 37:21And now men see not the bright light which is in the clouds: but the wind passes, and cleans them. Torrey's Topical Textbook Greek 5460. photeinos -- bright, light ... bright, light. Part of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: photeinos Phonetic Spelling: (fo-ti-nos') Short Definition: bright, luminous, full of light Definition ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5460.htm - 6k 3022. leukos -- bright, white Strong's Hebrew 216. or -- a light... From 'owr; illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.) -- bright, clear, + day, light (-ning), morning, sun. ... /hebrew/216.htm - 6k 3974. maor -- a luminary 5051. nogah -- brightness 215. or -- to be or become light 219. owrah -- a light 7043. qalal -- to be slight, swift or trifling Library A Bright Gleam of Light. O Light of Lights Around My Pathway Shining, Thine be the Glory, God of Light, The Meaning of the "Bright Cloud. " God, Thou Art Clothed with Light, Light in Darkness. A Dark Picture and a Bright Hope Light in the Dark, Before the Dawn Awaking Thou Dost not Hide Thyself in Thy Bareness, O Pearl! Epiphany Forsaking all for the True Light. Resources How can the light of stars billions of light years away from the earth have reached us if the earth is only thousands of years old? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that believers are to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16)? | GotQuestions.org Why does the Bible describe the moon as a light? | GotQuestions.org Light: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Light: Christ the Source of all Wisdom Light: Communicated to the Body Through the Eye Light: Divided Into: Artificial Light: Divided Into: Extraordinary or Miraculous Light: Figurative and Symbolical Light: Separated from Darkness Light: Sun, Moon, and Stars Appointed to Communicate to the Earth Light: The Glory of the Church Light: The Theory of, Beyond Man's Comprehension Light: Whatever Makes Manifest Related Terms |
    |