Definitions
The meaning of Light; Lightness in the Bible
(From International Standard Bible Encyclopedia)lit'-nes: "Light" is used in Scripture, as in ordinary speech, in the sense of what is small, slight, trivial, easy; "lightness" with the connotation of vacillation or lasciviousness. Thus in the Old Testament, "a light thing," a small, easy, slight thing (qalal, II Kings 3:18; Isaiah 49:6; Ezekiel 8:17; Ezekiel 22:7, in the last case "to treat slightingly"). "Lightness" (qol) occurs in Jeremiah 3:9 ("the lightness of her whoredom"); in Jeremiah 23:32, the Revised Version (British and American) changes "lightness" (a different word) to "vain boasting." In the New Testament the phrase occurs in Matthew 22:5, "made light of it" (ameleo), i.e. "treated it with neglect"; and Paul asks (II Corinthians 1:17), "Did I show lightness?" (the Revised Version (British and American) "fickleness"). These examples sufficiently illustrate the meaning.
James Orr
DISCLAIMER: Church of the Great God (CGG) provides these resources to aid the individual in studying the Bible. However, it is up to the individual to "prove all things, and hold fast to that which is good" (I Thessalonians 5:21). The content of these resources does not necessarily reflect the views of CGG. They are provided for information purposes only.
Join 135,000+ readers
A Verse and a Thought, Every Morning
The Berean delivers one scripture and a short, insightful commentary to your inbox each day — a starting point for reflection and study.