In the biblical narrative, darkness serves as a multifaceted symbol and tool used by God to convey various spiritual truths and realities. It is often juxtaposed with light, representing the absence of God's presence, judgment, or the mystery of His divine plan. The purpose of darkness in Scripture can be understood through several key themes:

1. Creation and Order: In the creation account, darkness is depicted as the initial state of the world. Genesis 1:2 states, "Now the earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep." Here, darkness precedes the creative act of God bringing forth light, symbolizing the transition from chaos to order. It underscores God's sovereignty in transforming darkness into light, establishing the foundation of creation.

2. Judgment and Consequence: Darkness frequently symbolizes divine judgment. In Exodus 10:21-23 , one of the plagues upon Egypt was a palpable darkness: "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Stretch out your hand toward the sky so that darkness spreads over Egypt—darkness that can be felt.' So Moses stretched out his hand toward the sky, and total darkness covered all Egypt for three days." This darkness served as a sign of God's power and judgment against Pharaoh's hardened heart.

3. Mystery and Revelation: Darkness can also represent the mystery of God's ways and the limits of human understanding. In Job 12:22 , it is written, "He reveals the deep things of darkness and brings deep shadows into the light." This suggests that God alone has the authority to unveil hidden truths, and what is concealed in darkness is subject to His revelation.

4. Spiritual Blindness and Sin: Darkness is often associated with spiritual blindness and sin. In John 3:19 , Jesus explains, "And this is the verdict: The Light has come into the world, but men loved the darkness rather than the Light because their deeds were evil." Here, darkness symbolizes the moral and spiritual state of humanity apart from God, highlighting the need for redemption through Christ, the Light of the world.

5. Protection and Concealment: At times, darkness serves as a means of protection or concealment. In Psalm 91:1 , it is written, "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty." The imagery of shadow and darkness here conveys a sense of divine protection and refuge, where God's presence provides safety and security.

6. Testing and Growth: Darkness can also be a period of testing and spiritual growth. In the life of biblical figures such as Joseph, who was cast into a pit and later imprisoned, darkness represents a time of trial that ultimately leads to God's greater purpose. These experiences of darkness refine faith and character, preparing individuals for future service in God's plan.

7. Eschatological Significance: In eschatological contexts, darkness is associated with the Day of the Lord and the final judgment. Joel 2:31 prophesies, "The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and awesome day of the LORD." This apocalyptic imagery underscores the seriousness of God's final judgment and the ultimate triumph of His light over darkness.

Throughout Scripture, darkness is a complex symbol that serves various divine purposes. It is a reminder of God's authority over creation, His righteous judgment, and the transformative power of His light.