"לדוד ד' אורי וישעי ממי אירא ד' מעוז חיי ממי אפחד"
תהילים כז:א
"A song of David, Hashem is my light and my salvation, whom shall I dread; Hashem is the strength of my life, whom shall I fear."
The Malbim points out that referring to Hashem as a light is best understood as a protection against the unknown. When we are faced with a hidden adversary or challenge – light is the best assistance, enabling us to see that which we need to overcome.
In this phrase, however, is a subtle nuance which gives us a valuable insight. Light doesn't only enable one to see – it also tints the visible field and may obscure some hues while bringing out others in sharp contrast. In short, light doesn’t only show us what there is to see, but also how we see it.
Metaphorically too, ideas or events can be understood totally differently depending on the context, or the light.
By calling Hashem his light, Dovid Hamelech is telling us that any other light will give a false gleam and may produce shadows or angles that aren’t there. Only seeing things by the light of Hashem is sure to result in seeing the world as it really is.
In this month of reconciliation between us and our Father in heaven, let us redouble our efforts to see only the emes in this world of sheker and intense, heartfelt service of the divine is sure to follow.
Hatzlacha !!
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