Revelation 21:23

Revelation 21:23 describes a scene where a city is illuminated not by the sun or the moon, but by the glory of God and the Lamb. This imagery symbolizes the spiritual enlightenment and divine presence that permeates the heavenly city described in the book of Revelation. The absence of the sun and moon highlights the idea that in the presence of God, there is no need for any other source of light or guidance. It signifies the complete dependence of the inhabitants of the city on God's glory for illumination, guidance, and sustenance. The mention of the Lamb as the light furthers this imagery, as the Lamb represents Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the Light of the world in Christian theology. Thus, this verse encapsulates the idea of ultimate spiritual fulfillment, where God's presence is the sole source of light and life in the heavenly city.

Many theologians interpret the verse "And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof" as a symbolic representation of the eternal and uninterrupted presence of God's glory and light in the heavenly city described in the book of Revelation. In this context, the absence of the sun and moon signifies the complete sufficiency and perfection of God's divine presence, which illuminates the city with a brilliance that surpasses any earthly source of light. The mention of the Lamb as the source of light further reinforces the Christian belief in Jesus Christ as the embodiment of divine light and truth. Some word studies on the original Greek text reveal that the term "lighten" used in this verse can also connote the idea of illumination and enlightenment, suggesting that the glory of God not only illuminates the heavenly city but also brings spiritual insight and understanding to its inhabitants.