There are many Biblical super-themes (redemption, exile, covenant, water, sacrifice), but it’s the theme of light that shines the most (see what I did there?!). Light was the first visual change in creation, brought about by the words of YHWH, “Let there be light [ohr א֑וֹר]”. The immediate response to YHWH’s words was the creation of light… and there was light [ohr אֽוֹר] (Genesis 1:3).
Darkness is a terrible thing to be enveloped in. Truth be told, many of us have felt swallowed up by darkness at one point or another in our lives. It is very comforting to know that YHWH can bring the light. YHWH is so enveloped in light (figuratively and literally) that in the final, victorious, Kingdom scene in John’s Revelation, we are told that, at the conclusion of the story, there will be no need for light…
Revelations 22:5
And there will no longer be any night; and they will not have need of the light of a lamp nor the light of the sun, because the Lord God will illuminate them; and they will reign forever and ever.
This year Hanukkah begins on the evening of December 25th and ends on January 2nd. It is a festival of dedication and LIGHT… and a beautiful reminder of God’s saving grace:
Isaiah 9:2
The people who walk in darkness will see a great light [ohr gadol אֹ֣ור גָּדֹ֑ול]; those who live in a dark land, a light [ohr א֖וֹר] will shine on them.
This season may you seek and find the Great Light (ohr gadol) that shines in the darkness for you!
To see the original (but tidied up) posting on LIGHT, click below:
OHR
Next week: His name…
Hebrew Word Lessons 