"I am the Light of the World": Conquering fear of the dark
Sunlight over the mountains. (Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh from Pexels)
Are you afraid of the dark? Do you tremble when you pass by dark corners or alleys?
A peculiar dread in the dimly lit places often stirs an unsettling feeling. They echo childhood whispers warning of lurking monsters or evil thugs, ready to grab or jump on you.
What is Nyctophobia?
Nyctophobia means an extreme, unreasonable fear of the dark or night. It brings severe anxiety and fear to those with it when in low light. This dread springs from not knowing what's hidden. It also includes feelings of loneliness in the dark and possible risks that might hide within.
Nyctophobia, viewed as a worry-related condition, belongs to the group of defined fears. Its intensity fluctuates, going from minor discomfort to more severe signs. Those affected may exhibit heightened heart rate, rapid breaths, perspiration, tremors, and an overwhelming urge to flee from dimly lit environments.
Satan: The Prince of Darkness
"But if anyone walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him." -
The Bible reveals that Satan is the Father of All Lies and the Evil One who always tries to instigate unknown or groundless fear among us. His main work is to grab people away from the faith in God and dwell in His peace and security.
Satan, Lucifer, Beelzebub, or the Devil, known by many names, was the once significant angel who fell from grace and was cast out from Heaven. The notion of Satan as the "Prince of Darkness" is a symbolic representation rooted in religious and cultural interpretations. In Christian theology, Satan is often characterized as a vicious and rebellious spiritual being who opposes God. The title "Prince of Darkness" underscores Satan's association with evil, sin, and spiritual obscurity.
This characterization is derived from various biblical passages. Ephesians 6:12 reads, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
The term "dark world" is metaphorically linked to Satan's dominion, reinforcing the idea that he is the ruler or prince of this spiritual darkness.
Jesus Christ: The Light of the World
"When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."
Amid intense disputes among the Jews regarding his identity and teachings, Jesus addresses their growing hatred and disbelief. The tension peaks when he asserts himself as the Light of the World, prompting immediate challenges from Jewish leaders. These confrontations intensify, culminating in Jesus boldly proclaiming, "Very truly I tell you…before Abraham was born, I am!" (John 8:58).
His assertion, suggesting His divine nature, sparks outrage among the leaders who attempt to stone Him. Jesus confronts their resistance in this pivotal moment, firmly stating His unequivocal claim to being God incarnate. The narrative reflects the profound theological clashes and mounting hostility that characterize this significant episode in the Gospels.
During the time of Jesus, the darkness of night was inescapable. As the sun dipped, individuals relied on meager light sources, such as bonfires or oil lamps. Fears of thieves and evil spirits heightened, lurking within the shadows.
Today, the presence of nighttime often slips from our awareness. The prevalence of electric lights illuminates our homes' interiors and exteriors, accompanied by streetlights, neon signs, and headlights.
Light conquers all darkness, fears, anxieties, and sorrows. When Jesus claimed, "I am the Light of the World," He emphasized that He is Lord over all creation and circumstances, including the dark.
