Light is apparently mentioned only 36 times in the Torah (B’nei Yissascher on Kislev and Tevet 1:6). It is mentioned many more times in the Talmud, and especially the mystical text of the Zohar.
We are taught that the soul of a each person is part of the light of God (Proverbs 20:27). There are mystical teachings about the primordial light of the Creation story, about the lights / candles of Chanukah and the menorah, and the flow (shefa) of light (or) that emanates from God constantly into Creation, sustaining it and us.
- Adonai Ori / Achat Sha’alti – God is My Light / Only One Thing I Ask – Psalm 27:1, 4 – “Yah is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? Yah is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” This piece is also one of many suitable for the High Holy Days. Enjoy the rest of the High Holy Days collection, for free, here.
- Neir Adonai No. 1 – Candle of God No.1 – an upbeat song to light everyone up!
- Neir Adonai No.2 – Candle of God No.2 – a contemplative song for light in dark times, seeing the light in ourselves, and bringing light to others
- Nir’eh Or – In Your light, We See Light – Psalm 36 – sung at Chanukah, and also a traditional text for blessing children and babies. Find my collection of Jewish Baby Blessings here.
- Or Zarua No. 1 – Light is Sown No.1 – Psalm 97:11 – a gentle invitation to the light of Shabbat – “Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.”
- Or Zarua No. 2 – Light is Sown No.2 – Psalm 97:11 – a lively, joyous celebration of the light of Shabbat
- Sh’lach Or’cha – Send Out Your Light – Psalm 43:3 – “Send out Your light and Your truth; let them lead me; let them bring me to Your holy mountain, and to Your dwelling place.”
- Yotzeir Or – Creator of Light – morning blessing for God making the lights (sun, moon, stars), peace and all things