Light

imageWhen we wish to make a better world we often talk about light. We put forth visions of mighty light warriors, or enlighteners, transparency. The fight between good and evil.

But if we really focus on the principles of this central code of faith, then what do we get?

There are, to my knowledge, two currents of theory. One is the Jewish structure of ideas, the other is the Platonic structure of ideas. They intermingle and yet have each and their clear differences.

Let us have a look at the Jewish ideas. First of all, Judaism is the spirit of the heart. It is all about the positive things in life, and off cause light is seen in this frame of understanding.

When we live, and wish to be good, we share. We treat our neighbors as we wish to be treated ourselves. Light in this context is the fulfilling of our neighbors needs. When we are in lack of something, we tend to get aggressive, jealous, greedy. If we are satisfied, we are in peace. Light in this context, is the fulfilling of our neighbors needs.

Take the Ukraine conflict. What do Donetsk and Lugansk need? They need freedom, and light in this situation would be to give them the freedom they lack.

In Platonism, light is another thing. I have tracked it to Egypt, where the G-d of the sun Amun Ra, situated in the town Heliopolis, had a different angle on the principle.

According to the ancient Egyptians light was the truth.

Hence science, politics and transparency as a principle. This is actually why freedom of speech is the first amendment in the American constitution; to make room for truth, symbolized by the goddess of light in the New York harbor.

Light as truth is very difficult to work with. There are basically two modes. One is the light of the sun, the other is the light of the moon.

The light of the sun is purifying for a state or a nation. This light is wielded by the strongest and most courageous of citizens. They seek to put light on the corruption of society, thereby diminishing it, and thereby keeping the nations healthy. These lightbringers are often persecuted and killed, as Socrates.

Then there is the light of the moon. This light is not so strong, and is therefore accepted in the society as something constructive. Lightbringers of this caliber, are mostly esteemed and accepted citizens. Philosophers as Kant, Kierkegaard and Plato are of this sort.

How to treat the light is a choice each person should take. I believe, that treating light as something serious is a prerogative for all people who wish to follow the path of goodness.

G-d bless the mighty in the light of their sacrifices for the good as light bringers.

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