The Hebrew word or (אוֹר) means light in every sense — physical daylight, the light of fire, and metaphorical illumination of the mind and spirit. It is the very first thing God created (Genesis 1:3) and is closely associated with God's nature, His word, and His salvation.
Light is one of Scripture's most powerful theological symbols. God declared 'Let there be light' before creating the sun, revealing that light's source is God Himself (Genesis 1:3). The Psalms declare that God's word is a lamp and a light (Psalm 119:105), and His face causes light to shine on His servants (Numbers 6:25). Isaiah prophesied a messianic light for those in darkness (Isaiah 9:2), fulfilled in Christ who called Himself the Light of the World (John 8:12). Believers are called to walk in the light and be lights themselves.