Lights from the Ancient Near East. Illumination of exterior and interior space in the New Testament

Abstract

In this essay fire as a source of light in antiquity is discussed: e.g. beacon fires (τὰ πυρά), torches (ὁ φανός/ ἡ λαμπάς) and lamps (ὀ λύχνος). In Greek the names for these objects differed greatly and in the New Testament the expressions are used literally and metaphorically. In Christian Tradition ‘light’ (ὁ φῶς) belongs to the heavenly realm and is the opposite of darkness. ‘The Light’ also symbolizes Jesus.