### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **skotía**, represented by `{{G4653}}`, refers to **darkness**, dimness, or obscurity. It appears **16 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is used both literally to describe the absence of physical light and, more often, figuratively to represent a state of spiritual ignorance and separation from God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G4653}}` is frequently used to create a stark contrast with light. Its literal use can be seen in accounts where events happen in the absence of daylight, such as when Mary Magdalene comes to the sepulchre while it was still **dark** [[John 20:1]] or when the disciples crossed the sea after it had become **dark** [[John 6:17]]. Figuratively, it describes a spiritual condition. Jesus states that anyone who follows him shall not walk in **darkness** [[John 8:12]], and the apostle John explains that a person who hates his brother is in **darkness** [[1 John 2:9]]. Ultimately, the Bible declares that God is light, and in him there is no **darkness** at all [[1 John 1:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the meaning and implications of `{{G4653}}`:
* `{{G5457}}` **phōs** (light): Defined as luminousness, this word is the direct antonym of **darkness**. It is used to describe God's nature [[1 John 1:5]] and the life Jesus offers [[John 8:12]].
* `{{G4043}}` **peripatéō** (walk): This word, meaning to live or deport oneself, is often used with **darkness** to describe a way of life. To "walk in **darkness**" is to live in a state of spiritual confusion, not knowing where one is going [[John 12:35]].
* `{{G5186}}` **typhlóō** (to make blind): This term is directly linked to the consequences of living in a state of spiritual **darkness**. In [[1 John 2:11]], it states that **darkness** has **blinded** the eyes of one who hates his brother.
* `{{G3404}}` **miséō** (to hate): This word for detesting or hating is presented as a cause for being in **darkness**. A person who claims to be in the light but **hateth** his brother remains in **darkness** [[1 John 2:9]].
* `{{G2222}}` **zōḗ** (life): Offered as the alternative to a life in darkness, Jesus promises the "light of **life**" to his followers, connecting light with true spiritual existence [[John 8:12]].
* `{{G3364}}` **ou mḗ** (not at all): This strong double negative is used to emphasize the absolute certainty that a follower of Christ will **not at all** walk in darkness [[John 8:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4653}}` is significant, establishing a fundamental spiritual dichotomy.
* **A State of Separation:** **Darkness** represents a realm of spiritual ignorance and separation from God. To be "in **darkness**" is to live without the truth and guidance that comes from God, who is defined as light [[1 John 1:5]].
* **Moral and Spiritual Blindness:** The condition of being in **darkness** leads to an inability to see or understand spiritual truth. As a result, one who walks in **darkness** does not know where he is going [[John 12:35]] because that **darkness** has **blinded** his eyes [[1 John 2:11]].
* **The Domain Overcome by Christ:** Jesus identifies himself as the "light of the world" who has come so that believers would not remain in **darkness** [[John 12:46]]. His presence shines in the **darkness**, offering a path out of it [[John 1:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4653}}` is a crucial biblical concept that extends far beyond physical dimness. It serves as a powerful metaphor for sin, ignorance, and alienation from God. The consistent scriptural contrast between **darkness** and `{{G5457}}` **phōs** (light) frames the human condition and the redemptive work of Christ, who delivers people from a life of **darkness** and brings them into the "light of **life**" [[John 8:12]].
TRV