אור
Let's analyze the word אור (light) again with Resh (ר) symbolizing revelation, and interpret light as a symbol of holiness. Breakdown of the Letters:
- Aleph (א):
- Aleph represents God, the source of all things, and divine authority. In this context, Aleph signifies that God is the source of holiness and that light, as a symbol, originates from God as a manifestation of His holy nature. The light in this sense represents not just physical light but the holiness of God that is revealed to the world.
- Vav (ו):
- Vav acts as a connector, linking Aleph (God) with Resh (revelation). It shows that the light (symbolizing holiness) is connected with the divine source and is made available to humanity. In the holiness context, Vav can be interpreted as the connection of God's holiness with the world through His light, where Christ (who is the embodiment of holiness) becomes the link between God and humanity.
- Resh (ר):
- In this context, Resh represents revelation, particularly the revelation of holiness. It signifies how God's holiness is revealed to humanity through light. Light here symbolizes the purity, truth, and divine presence that reveal God's nature. Resh also reflects that holiness is made visible to the world—just as light dispels darkness, the holiness of God dispels sin and reveals righteousness.
Interpreting the Word אור (Or) – "Light" with Resh as Revelation and Holiness:
- Aleph (א): The Source of Holiness
- Aleph represents God, who is the ultimate source of all holiness. God’s holiness is inherent in His nature, and the light that God creates is not just illumination but a symbol of His purity and righteousness. The holiness of God shines out in His creation and is the foundation of the light that enters the world.
- Vav (ו): The Connection to Holiness
- Vav connects the holiness of God (represented by Aleph) with its manifestation in the world. In Christ, this connection becomes clear: He is the mediator who brings God's holiness into the world, and through His life, He reveals the holiness of God to humanity. Just as Christ is the light of the world, He embodies and reveals God's holiness to all people.
- Resh (ר): The Revelation of Holiness
- Resh signifies the revelation of God's holiness through the light. The light is not just physical but a spiritual light, representing God's holiness, truth, and righteousness being revealed to humanity. Resh indicates that this light displays the holy nature of God, and through the revelation of His light, believers can encounter God's holiness, leading to transformation and sanctification.
Sensus Plenior Interpretation:
In sensus plenior, the deeper spiritual meaning of אור (light) focuses on holiness:
- Aleph (א): The Source of Holiness
- Aleph symbolizes God as the origin of holiness. Light as a symbol of holiness points directly to the purity and righteousness of God. Christ, as the ultimate expression of God’s holiness, is the source of light in the world. Through Christ, we encounter the holy presence of God, who is both the creator of light and the very embodiment of holiness.
- Vav (ו): Christ as the Mediator of Holiness
- The Vav connects the holiness of God with its manifestation in the world. In Christ, the holiness of God is revealed to humanity. He is the mediator of God's holiness, making it accessible to all. Christ, as the light of the world, shines in the darkness, bringing divine holiness into the lives of those who follow Him.
- Resh (ר): The Revelation of Holiness in Christ
- Resh signifies the revelation of God's holiness through light. Christ is the light that reveals God's holiness to the world. In the revelation of Christ, the purity, righteousness, and holiness of God are made known. Christ's life, death, and resurrection are the ultimate display of God's holiness and the way in which humanity is invited to share in His holiness.
Application:
- God as the Source of Holiness:
- The word אור begins with Aleph, which signifies that holiness originates from God. Light, as a symbol of holiness, reveals God’s purity and righteousness. Through Christ, we see the manifestation of God’s holiness in the world.
- Christ as the Mediator of Holiness:
- Vav connects God’s holiness to humanity through Christ. Christ is the link that makes God's holiness visible and accessible to the world. As the light of the world, He is the one who brings God's holy presence into the lives of believers.
- Holiness Revealed through Christ’s Light:
- Resh symbolizes the revelation of God’s holiness through light. Christ is the radiance of God's glory, revealing God’s holiness to humanity. This light dispels the darkness of sin, revealing the truth and righteousness of God.
Summary:
The word אור (Or) means light, and when interpreted through the lens of holiness, it reflects God’s divine purity and righteousness revealed through Christ. Aleph represents God as the source of holiness, Vav connects this holiness to humanity through Christ, and Resh signifies the revelation of God’s holiness through light. Christ, as the light of the world, reveals the holiness of God, transforming and sanctifying those who walk in His light. Holiness is no longer an abstract concept but is made real and visible through the divine light that is Christ.