Talking About Dark Things
Talking About Dark Things
April 16, 2025
Are you a fan of or afraid of the dark? My husband and I frequently have a “battle of the lights.” Bright lights bother my eyes. Also, I was raised in a time when leaving any lights on in an unoccupied room would elicit a negative comment from my father about the high electricity bill. On the other hand, my husband never met a light he did not want to illuminate, and I frequently accuse him of holding stock in our local electric company.
Light and darkness, along with their symbolism, can be frequently found in Sacred Scripture (Genesis 1:4), as well as in the divine services of the Orthodox Church. One of the most profound examples is experienced on Pascha, Easter, the Resurrection of Christ, when Jesus rose from the dead. In a darkened Church, the priest emerges from the sanctuary with a lit candle, inviting us all to “Come, receive the light, from the never-setting light; and glorify Christ, Who has risen from the dead.” The dark church is transformed by numerous lit candles held by the faithful, while in glorious unison they cry out Christ is Risen! Indeed, He is Risen! (more…)