The term "The Great Lights" refers to the two primary celestial bodies created by God to govern the day and the night, as described in the Book of Genesis. These are the sun and the moon, which serve as fundamental elements in the biblical account of creation and are integral to the understanding of time, seasons, and signs.

Biblical Account

The creation of the great lights is detailed in Genesis 1:14-18 : "And God said, 'Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to distinguish between the day and the night, and let them be signs to mark the seasons and days and years. And let them serve as lights in the expanse of the sky to shine upon the earth.' And it was so. God made two great lights—the greater light to rule the day and the lesser light to rule the night—and He made the stars as well. God set these lights in the expanse of the sky to shine upon the earth, to govern the day and the night, and to separate light from darkness. And God saw that it was good."

The Greater Light: The Sun

The sun, referred to as the "greater light," is created to govern the day. It is the primary source of light and energy for the earth, essential for life and growth. The sun's role in marking time is significant, as it determines the cycle of day and night, and by extension, the rhythm of human activity and rest. The sun is often associated with God's provision and faithfulness, as seen in passages like Psalm 19:4-6 : "In the heavens He has pitched a tent for the sun. Like a bridegroom emerging from his chamber, like a champion rejoicing to run his course, it rises at one end of the heavens and runs its circuit to the other; nothing is deprived of its warmth."

The Lesser Light: The Moon

The moon, the "lesser light," is created to govern the night. It reflects the light of the sun and provides illumination during the darkness. The moon is also crucial for marking seasons and times, particularly in the context of the Hebrew calendar, which is lunar-based. The moon's phases are used to determine the timing of religious festivals and observances. Psalm 104:19 highlights this role: "He made the moon to mark the seasons; the sun knows when to set."

Symbolism and Significance

In addition to their physical functions, the great lights hold symbolic significance in Scripture. They are often used metaphorically to represent God's order, sovereignty, and the distinction between good and evil. The separation of light from darkness is a recurring theme, symbolizing the moral and spiritual order established by God. The great lights also serve as a testament to God's creative power and His authority over the universe.

Prophetic and Eschatological References

The great lights are mentioned in prophetic and eschatological contexts, often symbolizing significant changes or divine intervention. For example, in Joel 2:31 , the prophet speaks of a time when "The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and awesome day of the LORD." Such imagery underscores the role of the great lights as harbingers of God's judgment and the fulfillment of His purposes.

Conclusion

The great lights, as described in the Bible, are not only essential for the physical functioning of the world but also carry deep theological and symbolic meanings. They reflect God's creative order, His provision, and His ultimate authority over creation. Through their regular and predictable patterns, they remind humanity of the constancy and faithfulness of God.