Light (Ohr)
אור
On a physical level, sunlight is necessary for photosynthesis, growth, and for life on earth to exist. Light sets our body clocks and regulates our circadian rhythms. On a symbolic level, light has a universal meaning of goodness, awakening, and hope, associated with warmth and healing.
The Encyclopedia of Jewish Symbols by Ellen Frankel and Betsy Platkin Teutsch, describes light as a pervasive symbol in Jewish theology and tradition, where it is “the primary link between divine and human worlds.” Since God’s first act of creation is to create light, light is associated with creative power. In mystical thought, divinity is pictured as a source of endless light: Ohr Ein Sof. Light is a symbol of Torah, “For a commandment is a lamp, and Torah is light.” (Proverbs 6:23). Light also has a moral association; the people of Israel are called upon to be an ethical example, “a light unto the nations” (Isaiah 24:6).
Meander down the path in this Gateway of Light to explore the symbol of light in Jewish tradition and in your life.
Choose your favorite Pathway, or follow them in order:
Light in Jerusalem
Something about the atmosphere in Jerusalem makes me feel like my feet aren’t quite touching the ground, even when my sandals are covered with dust. If people are not looking I find it hard to resist the desire to take off with a few dancing steps. Maybe it’s the...
Ode Yeshama: A Song of Jerusalem
A song from Jeremiah 33:10-11, music by Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach, performed by Rabbi David Zaslow and Rabbi Jackie Brodsky, Tom Freeman on drums. This joyful song is often performed at weddings, or sung on Shabbat, a day that's like a wedding celebration of life. "There...
Cosmic Light
Read more from NASA.gov on the science of understanding light at the far reaches of the universe. And about Light in Nature from the website of the International Year of Light (2015). Time to light a candle rather than curse the...
Light a Candle; Don’t Curse the Darkness
It is all too easy to see so many situations in the world—on the local or global scale—that seem dark and bleak. Consider the old proverb, “Better to light a single candle than to curse the darkness.” Find one step that you can take for light,for healing, and do it...
Sharing Circle: Light
Hidden & Revealed Revealed Light: Has the light of a certain landscape revealed something in your soul? What experiences of light do you treasure? Hidden Light: Where have you found a "hidden" light? In learning, spiritual practice, deeds? Or perhaps guiding your...