All word studies
Light in the Bible
Light is one of Scripture's master images for God Himself, for truth, and for moral purity. From the first creative word in Genesis to the city that has no need of the sun, light frames the whole biblical story.
Greek & Hebrew words
Greek (New Testament)
Hebrew (Old Testament)
Key KJV verses
All verses →John 8:12
“I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”Read in context
Or: the first word of creation
Or (H216) is the first thing God names in creation. It frames everything that follows — God works in light, not chaos.
Phos: Christ the true light
Phos (G5457) reaches its climax in John's gospel and letters: Christ is the light of the world, and 'God is light.'
Frequently asked questions
What is the Greek word for light?
Phōs (φῶς, Strong's G5457).
Why does the Bible call God light?
Because in Him is no darkness — no falsehood, no moral stain, nothing hidden (1 John 1:5).