Ophel (אֹפֶל) refers to thick darkness or deep gloom. The root conveys the idea of densely shadowed places where light does not penetrate — caves, dungeons, the shadow of death. It is used poetically to describe the darkness of Sheol and the affliction of the oppressed.
Scripture uses ophel to contrast the nature of God, who is light (1 John 1:5), with the condition of those who dwell in spiritual darkness apart from Him. The prophets invoke this darkness as a sign of divine judgment, while the psalmists cry out from it seeking God's deliverance. Darkness and light become the great cosmic metaphors for rebellion and redemption throughout Scripture.