Definition

Noun: A divine presence believed by Quakers to enlighten and guide the soul. It refers to an inner spiritual illumination or direct, personal experience of God's guidance, central to Quaker theology and practice.

Usage

The term "light within" is used specifically in religious, particularly Quaker (Society of Friends), contexts to describe the concept of God's direct inner revelation to an individual. * It is often capitalized as "Light Within" when referring to it as a proper theological concept. * It is typically used with a definite article ("the") or possessive pronoun.

Examples

• Quakers seek to follow the light within in all aspects of their lives.
• Her decision was made after quiet contemplation, listening to the Light Within.
• The minister spoke about the importance of being faithful to one's inner light.

Advanced Usage

• The Inner Light: A synonymous phrase commonly used interchangeably with "the light within."
• To hold something in the light: A Quaker practice of bringing a concern or person into focused worshipful attention, seeking guidance from the Light Within collectively.

Variants and Related Words

• Inner Light (n.): A direct synonym for "light within."
• Inward Light (n.): Another historical synonym used in Quaker writings.
• That of God in everyone (phrase): A related Quaker phrase expressing the belief that the Light Within is present in all people.

Synonyms

• Inner voice
• Divine guidance
• Spiritual intuition
• Conscience (in a specifically theistic context)

Related Idioms & Phrases

• To walk in the light: To live according to the guidance and principles revealed by the Light Within.
  • He strove to walk in the light, making his business practices align with his faith.
• To speak to one's condition: A Quaker phrase meaning words that resonate deeply with one's inner spiritual state, as if spoken by the Light Within.
  • The message during meeting for worship truly spoke to my condition.

Noun

1. a divine presence believed by Quakers to enlighten and guide the soul